2021 Northwest Herald Baseball Player of the Year: Richmond-Burton’s Hayden Christiansen

Richmond-Burton catcher Hayden Christiansen had 48 hits for the 2021 baseball season, 33 of which went for extra bases.

Christiansen had as many doubles (15) as he had singles. He also ripped 11 home runs and seven triples to drive in an area-best 47 runs for the 25-6 Rockets.

Christiansen was just as good behind the plate for R-B, which finished 25-6 and lost in its Class 2A sectional championship game.

For his efforts, Christiansen is the Northwest Herald Baseball Player of the Year, selected by the sports staff with input from area coaches. Jacobs shortstop Kyle Washington also was considered for the honor after his terrific year in the Fox Valley Conference.

Christiansen hit .505 and had a .580 on-base percentage for R-B’s prolific offense, which had four players with 30 or more RBIs. He struck out only five times in 95 at-bats.

The junior Xavier commit tied the school record for homers in a season held by Nate Roberts.

Christiansen fielded some questions from Northwest Herald sports writer Joe Stevenson about his season, catching mitts, hard throwers and s’mores.

What will you remember most about Richmond-Burton’s season?

Christiansen: I’ll never forget how well we worked together as a team. As a unit, we were able to count on each other, which helped us go deep in the postseason.

Is catcher one of the toughest positions in sports?

Christiansen: I think it’s easy to underestimate the amount of work a catcher puts in behind the plate, because if we’re doing our job right, it should look easy. The catcher is responsible for coordinating the defense, as well as getting a first-hand look into the umpire’s strike zone. While I’m not sure it’s the toughest position in sports, it’s definitely right up there; I love the grind.

Who is the hardest thrower you have ever caught and what is that like?

Christiansen: During the beginning of the pandemic, I was fortunate enough to catch some live games at Hitters Baseball Academy (in Racine, Wisconsin) for several professional players. I had the opportunity to catch Ben Wiegman, whose fastball topped at 96 mph. Having the chance to catch for pitchers like Ben, and watching and learning from other pro players like Gavin Lux, Josh Lindblom and Owen Miller, was an experience I’ll never forget.

How long does the average catcher’s mitt last you?

Christiansen: My mitts usually last around two to three years. Typically I rotate between two gloves during the on and offseason. During the offseason, I use that time to break in next season’s glove by catching balls from machines and pitchers during bullpens. The other glove is for regular-season games. The rotation works well, and allows me to have a backup mitt in case my glove breaks.

Do you switch bats often or do you have a make and model you like and stick with that?

Christiansen: I carry two types of bats: wood and composite. In high school and travel games where composite bats are allowed, I swing a 34-inch Louisville Slugger Select bat because I love the durability and pop. During summer travel baseball, there are a number of tournaments that are wood bat only. In those games, I prefer using a 34inch Louisville Slugger MLB Prime bat.

What kind of discussions do you have with umpires?

Christiansen: There’s nothing better than a veteran umpire who knows his stuff, and knows how to hold a conversation. Recently, I had an umpire ask me about what I was eating for dinner after the game. When I told him I was getting Chipotle, he recommended nearly a thousand different combinations for my burrito throughout the remainder of the game.

What do you know about Nate Roberts, whose home run record you tied this season?

Christiansen: Whenever I hear someone mention Nate’s name, it’s always followed by an insane statistic, or about a crazy play he’s made. Coach (Mike) Giese and (assistant) coach (Don) Stupienski have always talked about how Nate was a hard-working and dedicated player. I had a chance to meet up with Nate in grade school and he was a stand-up guy that was filled with the love of the game.

What’s something funny that happened during a game this season?

Christiansen: During a home game at Richmond, I hit a “bomb” to left field. As it went over the fence, I expected it to disappear quickly; however, it went farther than I expected and ended up hitting my teammate’s grandfather’s truck. Always park farther out at Tom Miller Field.

What is your dream vehicle?

Christiansen: My dream car is definitely a Ferrari. If it’s good enough for Thomas Magnum ...

What would be your walk-up song?

Christiansen: My walk-up song would have to be “Good Life” by Kanye West. It has the perfect relaxing tempo to walk up to the plate with a little swagger and confidence.

If you haven’t had anything yet, how can you have s’more of nothing?

Christiansen: You’re killin’ me, Smalls … I mean, Joe!

Who is the most famous person you’ve taken a picture with?

Christiansen: In 2016, I had the chance to be a bat boy for the Cleveland Indians during a spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels. Not only did I have my picture taken with Terry “Tito” Francona and the rest of the Indians, but I was able to keep a broken bat that Mike Napoli used during the game, which is still hanging in my room.

As a kid, who was your favorite Disney character?

Christiansen: My favorite Disney character has to be Buzz Lightyear. When I was new to Hitters Baseball, my 13U Coach, Andy Maki, gave me the nickname “Buzz.” He wanted to remind me to always reach for the stars. In a game that involves a lot of failure, like baseball, “Buzz” is a great reminder to dream big and believe in yourself.

What is your favorite class?

Christiansen: My favorite class is definitely math. Like catching, I love being able to find solutions to complex problems.

What is your favorite park in the Kishwaukee River Conference?

Christiansen: Without a doubt, my favorite field in the KRC is my home field at Richmond-Burton’s Tom Miller Field. I’ve made so many wonderful memories with my teammates there throughout my high school baseball experience and look forward to making more in the Spring of ’22 for my senior season.