The Minnesota State baseball team is coming off one of its best seasons since 1980. During the 2012 campaign, the Mavericks posted an overall record of 51-12 and finished in third-place at the NCAA Division II College Baseball College World Series. Senior Lucas Skjefte was a big contributor to this success, having one of his best seasons as a Maverick.
 
The Eden Prairie, Minn., native appeared in 62 games last season, which ranks third on the school’s all-time season list. Skjefte, a utility player, started off the season hitting safely in his first 14 games. He hit .305 with 3 homers, 33 RBI, and led the team with 16 steals. He also had a team-high 58 runs scored, ranking him fourth on the all-time season list and was second on the team with 71 hits.
 
“Lucas is a natural leader as he was voted by his teammates to be one of our captains for the 2013 season,” said head coach Matt Magers. “He has the unique ability in that he can play multiple positions, second base and centerfield, well. At the plate he can change the game with his gap to gap power and above average speed.”
 
What is your favorite position to play? 
I played second base my whole career, but last year I played mostly center field. I  don’t really have a preference on where I play, wherever I can fit in the lineup is fine with me.
 
How does it feel to be named captain of this year’s team?
It is definitely an honor because it is voted on by the team. Nothing really has changed for me since becoming captain. I just do the same things I normally do.
 
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not paying baseball?       
I like to go hunting and ice fishing. The guys and I try to go out ice fishing a couple times a week.
 
Do you have any pregame rituals?
I run down the left field line, stretch out and try to get my mind right. I also listen to music before I get to the field to stay calm and relaxed.
 
What is one thing that most people don’t know about you?
I was actually born in Florida. I moved up to Minnesota in second grade.
 
What is your favorite movie?
The Avengers
 
If you could have any superpower what would it be and why?
I would want to slow the baseball down so I could hit it easier.
 
What is your favorite restaurant?
Lucky Thirteen’s in the Twin Cities. I absolutely love going there.
 
If you had one million dollars what would you do with it?
I would buy my parents a big house on a lake since they have done a lot for me over the past 23 years.
 
What is the number one song played on your iPod?
Thrift Shop by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis.