Eight Questions with Joe Oliveira

Jan. 24, 2008

Q: You are entering you third year at Pacific. What has transpired in your development since you first set foot on campus?

Joe: "Ever since I bought into the coaches' philosophies, I have succeeded. They have really made me the player I am and they will continue to make me better."

Q: What is your take on Klein Family Field?

Joe: "It is the best field on the west coast. We are luck to play on such a plush field."

Q: How has the University of the Pacific set you up for the rest of your life?

Joe: "It has helped me grow into a man and helped me learn how to manage my time. I feel I'm ready for the real world now."

Q: You were voted the ninth best catcher in the country by Rivals.com. What does this mean to you?

Joe: "It means that I have to go out and play better than the eight other catchers so I can be number one."

Q: Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Joe: "Being a successful player in the major leagues."

Q: What is your outlook for the 2008 Tigers?

Joe: "We have the talent and ability to win a lot of games. We will be very prepared and we will go out and play the game. I am confident that we can have success and get this program to a very high national level."

Q: With the June draft looming in a couple months, what does this mean for Joe Olivera?

Joe: "The draft is out of my hands. I just control each day as it comes. My goal each day is try to maximize my ability and make this team the best it can be. If I prepare myself, practice and play the way I do, then the draft will take care of itself."

Q: As a catcher that can run, who do you pattern your game after?

Joe: "My ability to run has raised comparisons to Jason Kendal and Craig Biggio, since he came up as a catcher. But I like to compare myself defensively to Ivan Rodriguez. He can do everything defensively well and that is what I strive for."