R.J. Burns is the starting catcher for the Lake Highlands baseball team, which opens the area round of the playoffs tonight at 6 p.m. at Killeen Ellison. Burns, a senior, has been one of the team’s strongest defensive players all season and is one of the Wildcats’ vocal leaders. He took a moment to talk with The Advocate’s Tyler Terrell:
Q: How did you feel after LH was able to defeat Rowlett in the first round of the playoffs?
R.J. Burns
A: I felt like our team could match up against anyone after beating Rowlett. It allowed us to carry momentum into the second round.
Q: What is the key to beating Killeen Ellison this weekend?
A: We need to get a quick lead and keep our composure. I’m sure our pitching staff will take care of the rest.
Q: What are your plans for the summer?
A: I’m playing in a wood bat league, DABA, and hanging out at my lake.
Q: What is your favorite memory of this baseball season?
A: I have several favorite memories. One of the best was the dogpile on the mound after getting the last out against Rowlett in the third game.
Q: What do you like to do when you are not playing baseball?
A: I like to spend my free time with my friends, go to the gym and play ping pong.
Q: What has been the highlight of your senior year?
A: Definitely battling back to make playoffs, one game at a time, during district and beating out the first seed in bi-district.
Q: What is the best advice the baseball coaches have given you?
A: The best advice I have gotten is from both Coach Tucker and Coach Brown, telling me to stay positive, work hard and trust my talent.
Q: If you were not on the baseball team, which sport would you like to try at Lake Highlands?
A: I would definitely choose football because I play catcher and I live for the collisions at home plate. I like a physical sport.
