Brannon Easterling, reigning NCAA Div. II Most Valuable Player, according to College Baseball Lineup, is ready to begin the 2014 season by helping lead his team back to the College World Series. Last season Easterling led the nation with a 14-3 record with an astounding 2.10 earned run average while taking the Hilltoppers to the College World Series for the first time in school history.

Easterling is already off to an impressive start this year with three complete games and a 0.86 ERA. You would think he wouldn’t have time for activities unrelated to baseball, but Easterling is “different between the lines.”

“I’m focused on making grades and playing ball,” said Easterling. 

With his ultimate career goal being earning a spot as a professional baseball player, Easterling is his own worst critic. He understands that there is a difference between arrogance and confidence, and described himself as a “dirtbag” on the field, but quickly added “that’s a baseball term.” 

To mentally prepare himself before games, Easterling thinks of all the people who told him he couldn’t get to where he is today. He channels all of the negativity he received from his past and takes it out on the field.

After being injured and undergoing Tommy John surgery, Easterling transferred from Temple to Texas Tech to make his comeback. In 2012, Easterling made St. Edward’s his home. With his incredibly impressive ERA and intense dedication, Easterling is rising to the top. Last year alone, he was selected as an All-Conference and All-American player.

When asked what his biggest sports disappointment was, Easterling first began to speak about his outing at the Junior College World Series, but quickly transitioned into a much more enthusiastic answer. “No, I take it back,” he said, “my biggest disappointment…is every time I lose.”

His biggest disappointment might be when he loses, but his biggest motivation lies in his wins and his family. Easterling’s most important support system outside of baseball is his family. His father, who is also his biggest fan, records most games and spends time breaking down mechanics and pointing out what worked and where his game faltered.

Easterling, a man of many hobbies, such as baseball, golf and hunting, refuses to crack under the intense pressure of juggling a busy life. 

With his family’s support, Easterling says he can handle the pressure. Although his individual future may be bright, his focus is on leading his team to a successful 2014 season.