Chiego Crushes a Walkoff Grand Slam for the Win

Cyclones baseball third baseman and Cyclone Chronicle staff writer Dominick Chiego belted a walk-off grand slam on Friday, March 6, to put the Cyclones over New Paltz. On Wednesday, March 18, The Cyclone Chronicle interviewed Dominick Chiego about his exciting walk off grand slam and his goals for the rest of the season. 

How long have you been playing baseball, and when did you realize you wanted to pursue it at the collegiate level?

I started playing baseball when I was around seven years old. I honestly never really thought I had the chance of playing in college until I was 15, but I didn’t really make it a main goal for me at the time. I just wanted to play if a school had interest.

What made you choose Centenary University to play baseball at a collegiate level?

I chose Centenary because it has an amazing communication program, which is what I wanted to study. I also loved their baseball program, the coaching staff, the way things were operated, and, of course, the beautiful field that we have here.

What motivates you to keep improving as a player?

My teammates, family, and coaches motivate me to continue to keep working hard and be the best player I can possibly be.

What are some challenges you have faced this season, and how have they shaped your approach so far this season?

A challenge I’ve faced this season is getting out of my approach and swinging at the wrong pitches. I just have to re-collect myself, slow the game down, and remind myself what my approach truly is at-bat to at-bat. It’s more of a mental challenge than physical so the more I can learn to manage my mind, the better.

This walk off grand slam was your first home run of the year. How did that feel?

It was definitely an amazing feeling, especially since it was able to play a part in us winning the game.

Did you have a specific strategy in mind as you approached this at-bat?

The only thing I had in mind was to pass the bat on, extend the inning, and give the guy behind me a chance. I was just looking to get on base any way possible and give us a better chance of winning a ball game.

What was going through your mind as soon as you knew it was a homerun?

Honestly, I was thinking that it was crazy because all I needed was a single to do the job. The fact it ended up a homer was just kind of funny to me.

Can you describe the atmosphere in the stands when you hit the game-winning hit?

Electric is definitely the best way to put it. It’s always amazing when students, staff, and others come to our games to support Centenary.

How did your teammates react as you were rounding the bases waiting for you to touch home plate?

Their reaction is what made the moment so special. Seeing them all fired up that we won the game and their energy made me more excited than the actual moment.

What are your goals for the rest of the season after this exciting win?

The goal is to keep the moment going and do whatever it takes to get more W’s in the win column.

The Cyclone Chronicle thanks Student Athlete Dominick Chiego for participating in this interview. We wish Dominick Chiego and the rest of the baseball team good luck for the remainder of their season.