LBCC freshman Ethan Kleinschmit took the time in between a six-games-in-one-week stretch and finals to chat with The Commuter about his baseball career and plans for the future. Coming off of two-straight state championships to end his high school career, the left-handed pitcher will be making a one-year stop at Linn-Benton in 2024 before moving on to Oregon State University, with the goal of eventually making the major leagues.
How did you first get into baseball?
I first got into baseball when my parents signed me up to play T-ball in our youth program in Mount Angel, and have loved it ever since.
How did you decide to play at Linn-Benton?
I chose Linn-Benton because the program is a top NWAC team with a great connection to Oregon State to help me move onto the next level when my time is up here.
Your high school team at Mount Angel was back-to-back state champions to end your time there. What have those experiences meant to you and your confidence level heading into this chapter of your baseball career?
Going back to back was such a fun experience which gave me a lot of confidence coming into this year. It made me soak up every moment I could with that team. We had almost all been playing together since we were little so it was such a cool moment to send everyone off on the right foot.
Linn-Benton has a historically strong baseball program, what is it like to be a part of that?
Linn Benton is a great baseball program and super fun to be a part of because of how competitive it is in every aspect. From the weight room, to getting a starting spot on the field, even to playing a game of hacky sack before practice, everyone is always wanting to win which translates to the culture of the program.
The same could be said about Oregon State University, which you are verbally committed to. What has that been like for you and what is your timeline towards becoming a Beaver?
I first had contact with Oregon State the spring of my senior year but it was just a few phone calls. This fall is when they reached out to me again and then offered me a scholarship which led to me committing early in the fall. After this season at Linn-Benton I will be transferring to Oregon State for next season.
Did you grow up a Beaver fan?
Yes, I have been a Beaver fan my whole life, going to football and baseball games growing up.
You’ll be joining the Corvallis Knights this summer alongside LBCC utility player/pitcher Kellen Segel. What does that opportunity mean to you?
This will be a good opportunity for me to face some Division I hitters which will be good to prepare me for next year.
You throw 90+, do you have an exact number?
I have hit 94 mph.
What’s your major?
Business administration.
What do you like to do outside of school and baseball?
I love to go hunting and fishing while I can. I also really enjoy hanging out with my friends from back home.
Long-term goals, baseball or otherwise?
My baseball goal is to play as long as I can and play in the major leagues. Life goal is to be successful and raise a good family.
Back to focusing on LB baseball: what are the team’s goals this season?
End goal for us is to win the NWACs. We need to just take it one game at a time though and focus on the now to prepare us for the whole season.
Any personal goals?
I just want to fill up the win column and do what it takes for our team to be successful.