Hey everyone. For my new Blog this week, I really wanted to start talking with you guys and letting you get to know me even better. So I rounded up some of your best questions and will answer them here. Leading off...

“You're one of my favorite players. What is your favorite thing to do off of the field? –Justin”

Away from the game, I’d say that my favorite things to do are go bowling and just hang out with my friends.

“Hey Ryan, did you play football in high school???? –Nathan”

Yes, I sure did. I played football during my freshman and sophomore years of high school. I played both defensive end and tight end.

“I have a question for you--You have a job so much bigger than baseball-a role model and you seem to be doing a great job. How do you encourage kids that you come in contact with? –Sara”

Hey Sara. In terms of baseball, the most important thing I tell kids is to try to have fun with the game and just play it hard. You can apply that same discipline to your school work, too. Work hard and have fun.

“You look like you're always having a good time out there. How have you adjusted to living in Philly after growing up in the midwest? Tough change? Best of luck this season. – Matt”

You know, it wasn’t that hard. I’ve been playing on a travel team since the age of 15 so I was sort of used to being on the road with my team. The adjustment to Philly was pretty easy, too, because t he people here have been really great.

“Since I'm a baseball player to be, can I ask if you plan to hold any baseball camps? I want to improve my skills. – Christian”

That’s a good question. I don’t have anything planned right now, but check back here often and I’ll be sure to update you.

“Who did you look up to when you were younger, and just playing for fun? –Maine”

Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds and Tony Gwynn were my idols growing up. All of them great hitters, all of them lefties.

Alright, well thanks again for writing in. I’m going to start doing this every few weeks moving forward, so keep ‘em coming and give me your best.