By Tyler J. Scott ’12
THE ROUNDUP
When Connor Moore ’12was three-years-old he would go to his brother’s t-ball games with his dad.
“I would play catch with my dad on the sidelines,” Moore said. “I loved anything to do with throwing a ball, and baseball was the best fit for me.”
Moore decided at that point that he wanted to play baseball for as long as he could. So far, he has been a three-year starter at shortstop for the Brophy varsity baseball team.
“He joins a list of three-year starters over the course of my time here that isn’t too extensive, and that goes with the rest of the three-year starters,” said head coach Mr. Tom Succow.
Mr. Succow also had high praises for Moore’s commitment to the defensive side of the game.
“He has a quiet demeanor, but he’s always played great defense for us,” he said.
To Mr. Succow, the work that Moore puts into his defense is obvious.
“He plays the toughest position, defensively, on the field because it requires a lot of range, and he continues to work at his craft,” he said. “He takes a lot of pride in his defense, it’s very obvious that he works at this every day and enjoys that part of it.”
Mr. Succow also said he believes Moore to be one half of a formidable defensive duo.
“Defensively, with having Moore and Emilio Torrez ’12 at shortstop and second base respectively, they’re in my opinion the best middle infield duo in the state of Arizona,” Mr. Succow said.
Mr. Succow also said one of Moore’s strengths is overcoming serious injuries.
“Connor has, for over the last year, had two knee surgeries, and to me, I think it is remarkable at the fact that he continues to play and continues to play at a high level,” he said. “With these knee injuries, he doesn’t use them as an excuse, doesn’t use them as a setback.”
Moore said that his favorite part of baseball is the team aspect.
“I like being part of a team and being able to depend on each other to win,” he said.
As a senior, Moore expressed his desire to capture a state title in his last try. He said he believes the team has all the tools necessary for a deep playoff run.
“We’re experienced, hardworking and we have good team chemistry,” he said. “We have a strong pitching staff, a solid lineup and new young talent that put the icing on the cake.”
However, individually Moore is also looking at his future in college.
He said that he is mulling over his options in Southern California right now, specifically the University of San Diego.
Mr. Succow is also aware of the Toreros’ interest in Moore.
“He has a potential of possibly playing college baseball at the Division I level when he graduates,” he said. “University of San Diego is kind of interested in him; they’ll follow him so I think he’s got a great perspective.”
Besides Moore’s playing ability, Mr. Succow also holds his character in high regard.
“Connor continues to be a leader, I just think he is an exceptional young man,” he said. “He doesn’t get too high and doesn’t get too low.”