At the beginning of last season, freshman second baseman Kyle Overstreet looked to make the baseball team, contribute where he could and possibly start. One year, one Gold Glove and one SEC All-Freshman Team selection later, Overstreet has learned not to underestimate his ability when setting goals.
After a season in which he led the league in double plays turned and made just six errors in 363 attempts, he was awarded the 2013 Rawlings Gold Glove. The Gold Glove, which is presented annually on both a professional and collegiate level, is given to the best defensive players at their respective positions.
Though recognition and awards are nothing new to the former Boaz High School standout, he realizes the significance of an elite award such as the Gold Glove and sees the impact it could have on his future.
“Something like the Gold Glove is awesome to get. You’re the best at your position. There are some great players in this league, and every second baseman in the league is good, but I feel like I’ve put in the work,” Overstreet said.
Overstreet’s recognition for fielding excellence was not overlooked by his high school defense coach and father, Jeff Overstreet.
“I’m very proud of him,” Jeff said. “He’s worked extremely hard his whole life on his defense and turning double plays, and I was glad to see that all of it paid off for him last year.”
Though Kyle’s on-field recognition is a testament to his personal work ethic, he said he also owes his accomplishment to fellow middle infielder and childhood friend Mikey White, Alabama’s starting shortstop. After meeting at a baseball tournament at the age of 9, Kyle and White became good friends, hoping to play together one day. Kyle’s father coached both, and their chemistry was evident at an early age.
“It was kind of natural,” White said. “I used to go spend weeks in Boaz and work with Kyle and his dad, who is a defensive coach. It really helped me personally as a baseball player, and we’ve had chemistry ever since then because we’ve always been together.”
Though he had an excellent season by any player’s standards, Kyle said he knows not to get complacent amid all the recognition.
One way he avoided doing so was by participating in summer league baseball. Kyle was one of six Alabama players selected to play in the Cape Cod Baseball League, one of the most prestigious and competitive amateur leagues. He got a chance to play against some of the nations elite players, yet also continued to work at his craft during a long off-season.
“You always have to keep working and looking to get better,” Kyle said. “Baseball is one of those sports where you have to get better every day.”
Though Kyle said he appreciates last season and is proud of his accomplishments, he plans to use them as a stepping stone toward more ambitious personal and team goals.
“I’d like to make the All-SEC team again, win the Gold Glove again if possible and play for Team USA next summer,” he said.
As far as team goals, Kyle said he has high expectations and is confident the team will accomplish them.
“Everyone wants to make it to Omaha, and I’d like to do that along with winning the SEC Tournament,” Overstreet said.
