MANSFIELD, Texas — If you’re searching for one of the best high school baseball players in the state of Texas, look no further than Mansfield shortstop David Hogg II.
He’s highly talented in every aspect of the game. However, he takes the most pride when he steps up to the plate.
“There’s just something about being in the box,” David said. “Competing against another guy on the mound, especially one who’s dominant. Hitting and pitching is one-on-one. I love it. I love the competition and the fire that comes with it. It’s me versus you.”
When David first picked up a baseball, he was 5 years old.
“My dad and I used to go out to the front yard and play catch back and forth,” he said. “As I got older, my development continued to progress.”
David draws inspiration for a variety of different ball players. But the one he looks up to the most is Chicago White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson.
“There’s not as many African American shortstops as there should be,” he said. “Tim is one who stays consistent and that’s something I can respect because he’s someone I aspire to be one day.”
Before David begins his collegiate career at LSU, he has a lot of unfinished business to take care of in Mansfield. One of his goals this season is to help the Tigers win a state championship.
“I fit right in. Everyone on this team has a great personality. But when it’s time to put your head down and grind, I think that everybody has that in them,” David said. “That’s a key to a good team and I believe we are that.”