Ladarian Gaines is one of the best players from the Waxahachie, TX area in the Class of 2023.
The 5-foot-10, 150-pound Gaines, who attends Life High School, is a dynamic player that works as a center fielder and outfielder.
Gaines has earned plenty of recognition during his career, such as Baseball Youth All-American and Baseball Youth Elite.
Gaines is humbled by the accolades.
“It means that I'm progressing,” Gaines said. “It was a great experience.”
Gaines has attended camps for USSSA All-American camp, Alabama State, and USA Baseball Showcase.
No matter the opponent, every game Gaines is determined to give it his all.
Gaines is going all out.
The motor is always at full throttle whenever Gaines steps between the lines.
“My mindset is when the ball gets hit to me is how I'm going to read the ball,” Gaines said. “Like if it's going to right or left, I'm going to attack the ball.”
Gaines has great passion and energy whenever he’s on the field. Gaines tells why he enjoys the game of baseball so much.
“I love the intensity of the game,” Gaines said. “It is a fun sport to play.”
Gaines has learned many valuable lessons from playing baseball that he applies to his everyday life.
“Playing baseball has taught me to be a team player and leader,” Gaines said.
Gaines shares his favorite memory of playing baseball.
“Hitting my first home run at the age of 10 because people thought I was too young to hit one over the fence because of my age,” Gaines said. “I love proving people wrong.”
Gaines takes his role as one of the leaders on the team very seriously. Gaines makes sure he’s a daily positive influence on his peers.
“I demonstrate being a good teammate by leading by example,” Gaines said. “The best advice I give is to stay focused and watch the pitcher.”
Gaines is appreciative of having amazing male role models that are supportive.
“My coaches have taught me about being a team player on a team and in life,” Gaines said. “The best advice I’ve gotten is to not keep my head down when I swing.”
Gaines patterns his mentality after this standout.
“Mike Trout because of how he gets to the ball,” Gaines said.
Gaines lists history as his favorite subject in school.
“It’s just interesting to me,” Gaines said.
Gaines explains his collegiate aspirations.
“My top college choices are Vanderbilt, Miami and TCU,” Gaines said.
Gaines maintains a rigorous schedule to stay sharp.
“I hit off tee and do pull ups,” Gaines said.
Gaines describes what he believes separates himself from the pack.
“My leadership and me playing outfield since T-Ball,” Gaines said.
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