Hochanadel: A Diamond Power

Sir Thomas More has been remembered by historians as "a man for all seasons."

But the same title could certainly be given to Harvard sophomore Mike Hochanadel, a standout in both football and baseball.

This spring, Hochanadel has emerged as a standout on the diamond--one of the true bright spots in a somewhat disappointing season for the Crimson.

But baseball was not always Hochanadel's first love.

Growing up in Columbus, Ohio, Hochanadel excelled in not two but three sports, squeezing winter basketball between falls on the gridiron and springs on the diamond. Football, however, always took on primary importance.

"I always liked football the best growing up because it was more exciting, more action," said Hocahandel, who now gives the nod to baseball. "But it really depends on which season we are in."

Rather than choosing baseball as his favorite, baseball has actually chosen him.

"The reason I like baseball better now is because I have had more success with it since I got here, and I get to play more," Hochanadel said.

While Hochanadel has enjoyed tremendous individual success this season, the Crimson's disappointing campaign colors his feelings on his accomplishments.

"I guess I am happy with how I've been playing, though I started off kind of rough," Hochanadel said. "But we have had a very disappointing season which takes a way from my own success."

Still, Hochandel's season has been quite impressive. He is the primary source of power in the Crimson batting order, and has put up terrific numbers all year long.

Hochanadel currently leads the Crimson in doubles (8), triples (3), home runs (3, including a blast over the Green Monster at Fenway during the Beanpot), and total bases (46). And as if that weren't enough, he is tied with freshman Brett Vankoski for the lead in RBI's with 17.

Hochanadel cannot easily explain his rapid rise to the pinnacle of the Crimson offense.

"I'm not really doing anything differently, nothing technical," said Hochanadel. "It is mainly that my attitude is different. I have started to relax more at the plate, and it has paid off."

And how!

The only success Hochanadel has yet to enjoy is to play for a contender for the Ivy League title. But he doesn't think this team is far off.

"At the beginning I really thought we could contend this year. This year has not gone well but I think with a few adjustments we will be close soon," Hochanadel said. "We've just got to learn how to win."

If anyone can lead the Crimson to league prominence it is Hochanadel. His raw power will only become a more potent weapon in the future, and the Crimson has a corps of other talented young players, so prospects look good.

With luck, Hochanadel will, at some point in the next two years, find the team success that has thus far eluded him.

And along the way, this man for all seasons will surely meet a more prosperous fate than Sir Thomas did.