Eric Young Jr. is a current Minor Leaguer with the Colorado Rockies triple-A affiliate. He came up as a September callup in 2009, and he made the postseason roster going into the playoffs. As we anticipate his comeback to the majors, MLBtoday.net was lucky enough to get an interview with Eric which we are excited to share with you!

BIO
Eric Young Jr.
Hometown: Piscataway, NJ
DOB: 5/25/1985
Size: 5’10”, 185
Position: 2B/OF

MLBtoday: We’re pretty familiar with the competition level of Piscataway baseball, so what was the transition like from High School straight to the Minor Leagues?

Eric Young Jr.: Well I went one year of junior college in Arizona before going to minors. The biggest transition is playing every day. Getting my body used to playing day after day was the biggest difference.

MLBtoday: Was college ever a thought or did you know you wanted to go right to the Minors?

EYJ: I considered going to college as well. It was just a matter of what I really wanted to do.

MLBtoday: What’s is like being away from NJ and now playing for Colorado?  Do you have a home there now?

EYJ: I have a place in Colorado for the season. I have been playing away from Jersey for about 6 years now. It’s what I have to do if I want to play ball.

MLBtoday: Your Dad, Eric Young Sr., played in the Majors for over a decade; what was his greatest influence on you?  What was the best advice he’s ever given you?

EYJ: During his 14+ year major league career, he never pushed me to play baseball. I just enjoyed playing ball, and he encouraged me to be happy at whatever I do. The best advice he gave me was to make sure my heart was in what I do.

MLBtoday: How is your game similar to that of your Dad’s?  What is the main difference?  Do you like being compared or are you trying to start your own Young legacy?

EYJ: Our games are similar because of the ability God blessed us with, and that’s speed. I’m a switch hitter, and he only batted right handed. I’m proud of what my dad has accomplished and still is accomplishing, but I want to start my own legacy.

MLBtoday: You enjoyed a lot of success in the Minor Leagues and made it to the Majors last year, what do you expect from yourself this year as far as numbers go?

EYJ: I’m not worried about numbers. If I get a lot of playing time, I know my numbers will be there.

MLBtoday: We had the joy of watching some September games of yours on MLB.tv and noticed your game is build around speed and raw athleticism (you played multiple positions).  What position do you think you are best at?

EYJ: My natural position is second base. As long as I’m on the field, I don’t care where I’m playing.

MLBtoday: Do you find it difficult to switch positions on a game to game basis sometimes?

EYJ: It’s something to get used to, but it was a challenge at first.

MLBtoday: What is the strongest part of your game?  What do you feel you need to improve on the most?

EYJ: The strongest part is my speed, and hitting. I just want to become a more consistent player on both sides of the ball.

MLBtoday: List some personal goals for the 2010 season.

EYJ: 500 at-bats! If I get the at-bats, that means I’m playing enough to accomplish any other goal.

The MLBtoday staff would like to thank Eric Young Jr. for his time and enthusiasm for this interview. Eric’s focus and love for the game is what will bring him back to the majors for years. We wish him luck in the 2010 season!