Ball State University Athletics
Sports Link Profile: Derek Grabner (Baseball)
May 25, 2010 | Baseball
MUNCIE, Ind. -- From a leading role on stage to a leading role on the 2010 Ball State Baseball team, junior relief pitcher and theater major Derek Grabner enjoys the spotlight.
"I want to be a professional actor, but I also love baseball," Grabner says. "Baseball has allowed me the opportunity I have now. It's like having two majors. Days are long, but it's fun. It's what I love."
Grabner played a leading role in the theater department's production of Macbeth earlier this year, all while going through the demands of winter practice and the start of the baseball season.
"He has obligations on both ends that he is trying to meet," say BSU head coach Greg Beals. "He has two things that he has a great deal of passion for pulling on him. He's learning a great lesson in life and contributing to both."
Grabner has pitched 51 innings for the Cardinals this season and owns a 4-3 record on the mound.
"The moment right before you go out on stage feels exactly like the moment when you get pulled from the bullpen to come into a game," Grabner says. "It's the moment where you know everyone is looking at you and you are supposed to deliver. That moment is a beautiful thing and I love it every time."
Grabner and the Cardinals finished the regular season with a 28-27 overall record, including a 19-8 record in Mid-American Conference play to tie for second in the league.
Ball State opens the 2010 MAC Tournament against #5 seed Bowling Green at 9 a.m Wednesday.
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