After the 15U European Cup, his title as top hitter put him in the spotlight in our baseball community. Like others, we’ll have to count on him in the future. Baseball TV France met the young prospect.
BTVF: Who are you, Baptiste Volpato?
B.V.: I’m Baptiste Volpato, I’m 14 years old, and I’m from Béziers. I’ve been playing baseball since I was 7.
BTVF: You competed for France at last year’s World Championship in Mexico. What did you take away from that experience?
B.V.: Last year was my first year with the French national team. This experience showed me the world level and baseball in other countries. I had a lot of fun playing against top teams and facing the best players my age.
BTVF: You just finished your school year at the Montpellier Academy and you’re joining the France Academy in Toulouse this fall. What are your expectations for this training?
B.V.: Next year, I’ll discover something new in Toulouse. I want to go as far as possible in this sport, and I’ll be able to progress and gain experience thanks to the France Academy.
BTVF: The European Cup just ended. Individually, you took home the top hitter trophy with some impressive stats. Are you used to this kind of average (.692), and how do you explain this trophy?
B.V.: No, even in 15U this season, I had a lower average. During that at-bat in the first inning, I felt a bit late on my timing. I adjusted, and he threw me an inside pitch. Despite the score, I was happy—I thought I had a good game. When I heard ‘best hitter from France,’ I knew it was me who was being called, and I felt immense joy. I was honored to receive this award. I’ve been working hard for two years at the Hope Academy, and thanks to my coaches and my efforts, I was able to win this trophy. But I especially had fun during these European Championships, and I think that’s the most important thing to perform.
BTVF: Next year, you’ll be joining the 18U team, which means in your club, the Béziers Pirates, the possibility of playing senior with a wooden bat. How do you plan to approach this step?
B.V.: I can’t wait to play senior with the same determination as before.
BTVF: What can we wish you?
B.V.: To join a college after my A-levels and continue to enjoy baseball.
