
Mike Nikorak (Photo: Stroudsburg High School)
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PLAYER PROFILE:
Name: Mike Nikorak
Position: Pitcher
School: Stroudsburg, Pa.
Ht.: 6-5. Wt.: 225.
Bats/throws: right/right
College/MLB draft: Alabama/Drafted No. 27 overall by Colorado Rockies
Key stats: Was 8-0 with a 1.42 ERA and 50 strikeouts in 29.2 innings. Also hit .413 with six homers and 26 RBI in 96 at-bats
My clutch moment: I’d say my junior year, playing our rival Pleasant Valley (Brodheadsville). I came on in relief, struck out the side and then hit a walk-off homer.
If I had a time machine: I would go back to the early 2000s and 1990s when the Yankees went on their World Series runs and be at every single one of their games. I just liked the atmosphere the stadium used to have.
Season highlight: Probably my first game of the season. I threw two scoreless innings and went 5-for-5 with seven RBI. It was the best game I’ve ever had.
Favorite teacher: Mrs. (Maureen) Verwey, my French teacher. She’s a good family friend and a great teacher. She definitely made it a little easier for me.
My reality TV competition: I would have to go with Stone Cold Steve Austin series, the Broken Skull Challenge. Eight people compete until there’s only one. I think it would be fun. I’m up for the challenge.
Three objects on a desert island: A Firestarter, a knife and a pot.
Biggest mistake I’ve learned from: My biggest mistake going through high school was worrying about things that weren’t too relevant to myself. Once I got over that, things became a lot clearer.
Cartoon character that I am like: Ed from Ed, Edd and Eddy, because I’m always trying something new out.
My inspiration: I always use my brother or my uncle or my mom for this one, but I would say Derek Jeter because of the way he carries himself off the field. He’s a good example.
Hidden talent: I was a really good football player. It was a tough decision not to play my senior year.