Sports Spotlight - West Orange Times & Observer: Zale Lugo

Zale Lugo is known around the baseball diamond as a kid who can hit a home run or two. He’s already hit six this year. He currently plays for the Winter Garden Little League and also plays on a travel team with Empire Baseball Academy. This summer, he’s traveling to Cooperstown to play in the 2017 American Youth Baseball Hall of Fame Invitational Tournament.

When did you start playing baseball?

I’ve been playing since I was 9 years old. I like playing because it’s fun and you get to learn new things.

Which position is your favorite to play?

First base is my favorite, because usually I get the ball a lot there. It’s fun making plays at that spot.

What are you excited about for the Cooperstown tournament this summer?

I’m excited to be going with the team (Red Raiders) to complete. I want to go to the museums and look around.

What is it like when you’re up at bat getting ready to hit?

I like the feel of it whenever you hit a ball really hard. The inside pitch is my favorite to hit.

How does it feel to hit a homer?

Usually once I hit it, I know it’s gone.

If you could play for any MLB team, which would you want to play for?

The Marlins because that’s the local team. I like the players, and they have a good history there.

What’s the difference for you between playing little league and travel ball?

Travel ball is more competitive and harder coaching. I like it because it’s challenging. Little League is more like playing for fun.

What’s the most challenging things when you’re playing baseball?

Trying to stay in front of a ball coming hard at you.

What is your favorite subject at school?

Science. I feel like science is easier to learn about. It’s not pounding stuff into your head. It’s fun.

What’s your favorite food?

Mexican food because of the spice, and it tastes better than regular food.

Contact Brittany Gaines at [email protected].