Five questions with Steve Parker

Shortly after he was the first local athlete picked in the Major League Baseball first-year player draft, Steve Parker, of BYU and American Fork High, discussed a few items with Deseret News sportswriter Andrew Aragon. Parker was a fifth-round pick by the Oakland A's. He signed a contract and was assigned to the Kane County Cougars, Oakland's affiliate in the Midwest League, earlier this week.

Q: How does it feel to be done with school?

A: I'm not done with school. I'll finish off school as I play. The plan is to go out right now and play summer ball with Vancouver (the plan was changed to Kane County). At least that's what will probably happen. And then I'll finish (school) in the fall. I think that's how it works.

Q: Is it tough to leave BYU after your junior year?

A: Yeah, definitely. Coach (Vance) Law, and coach (Ryan) Roberts helped me become a much better hitter. They helped me understand the game better, and become a better ball player. I'll miss the guys. I'll miss the coaching staff. It's exciting to take the next step. That's what I've been playing for. But I will miss BYU a lot. I had a great experience there.

Q: You're about to get a nice, pro baseball contract. What do you plan on buying after you get your bonus or your first check?

A: Nothing in particular (laughs). I haven't even thought about it. I'll probably put most of it away. I don't really need anything right now.

Q: Not many baseball players, if any, have made it to the big leagues from American Fork. Are you surprised at all that you are on track to getting to the big leagues with where you're coming from?

A: Maybe a little. Talent comes from everywhere though. You can come from the smallest place in the world and make it. I knew I'd get a chance with dedication, a lot of work and a lot of practice. I owe it (getting drafted) to my high school coaches and my college coaches, and I worked hard to become the player I have.

Q: Who would you say has influenced you the most in your life?

A: Definitely my father (Michael). He taught me everything I know. He taught me how to do things the right way. He loves baseball. I remember playing catch in the backyard and him pitching to me. That's how I got started in baseball.