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Trout sets the tone for TCU baseball Senior from Hooks is one of just two Frogs to start every game this season
June 2, 2007 HOUSTON -- Steven Trout is a special player for the TCU baseball team. So special, in fact, that Horned Frog head coach Jim Schlossnagle gave him the ultimate baseball compliment. Schlossnagle referred to Trout as a dirtbag for his efforts on the diamond in setting the tone for TCU with his attitude, work ethic, love of the game and hard-nosed style of play. "Steven is a special kid," Schlossnagle said. "I evaluate players based on two things, `Does their work ethic meet or exceed their ability level?' "Steven has a lot of ability and is a great baseball player. He's a dirtbag who can do a lot of things. His work ethic exceeds his ability level. That's why he has success, and that's why I enjoy coaching him." The 5-foot-10, 185-pound Trout had a standout athletic career at Hooks (Texas) High School, lettering in baseball, football, basketball and golf. Not heavily recruited for his efforts on the diamond, Trout headed to Texarkana Community College. He was a two-year starter and an all-conference shortstop, batting .353 as a sophomore. In his two seasons at TCU, Trout has made a major impact on a pair of championship teams. Trout is one of just two Frogs to start all 59 games this year. After Friday's 3-2 win over Baylor in the opening game of the Houston Regional, Trout is batting .318 and is third on the team with 41 RBIs. Trout hit .286 and made 58 starts in his 60 appearances in 2006. He was named to the all-tournament teams at the Whataburger College Classic and Mountain West Conference Tournament. He has reached base in 108 of his 119 contests as a Frog with 31 multiple-hit games, including 20 this season. He had 4-hit efforts in wins over Vermont and UNLV. Trout's success at TCU has come while battling injuries that seemingly were part of his daily regimen the last two years. Trout had a stress fracture in his elbow last season. This spring, it was a stress fracture in his shin that ultimately went away. Most important for the Frogs, he's 100 percent right now as they look to continue in the winner's bracket at the Houston Regional. Between his ailments and not being a heavily recruited player, Trout hopes to serve as an inspiration for others to simply persevere and good things will happen. "When I was growing up, my parents always told me to work hard and my dreams would be fulfilled," he said. "I've worked hard ever since I started playing baseball. "Luckily, I had a chance to play at a junior college and then come to TCU. It's been a great experience. Helping make it a positive experience for Trout is Schlossnagle. "He's a great player's coach, example and leader for us," Trout said. "He does everything for us." Trout is also appreciated by his teammates. "Steven is an all-around great guy and teammate," TCU first-team All-MWC outfielder Clint Arnold said. "He's had a great senior year and made huge contributions on and off the field with his leadership. "Steven is always the guy that, when you walk into the clubhouse, has a smile on his face and is ready to work and have fun. He's been banged up all year, but he has fun playing the game. You got to love guys like that. "It's contagious and rubs off on teammates." Trout is committed to doing all he can to help TCU extend its season all the way to Omaha, site of the College World Series. The reality has sunk in that his days as a college baseball player are winding down. "I don't think it will hit me too bad until we're done playing," Trout said. "Through all the things like Senior Day and graduation, I kind of worship the days that I have ahead of me playing." It has also provided motivation for Trout to help TCU reach its ultimate goal. "This is something you dream about," he said. "Ever since I was a little kid, I've always had a dream to play in Omaha."
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