Tyler Reese always wanted to be a part of the Issaquah Eagles baseball program ever since he was a little kid.

Reese’s father Rob is in his 26th season leading the Eagles baseball program. The Eagles baseball squad, which has won three state titles (2000, 2004 and 2007) are one of the most well-respected baseball programs in the Western Washington region. Reese remembers watching his father’s team win a state crown in 2007 when he was just 5 years old.

“It was crazy watching that state championship team. I always wanted to be part of one of them,” Reese said. “We have a good tradition here and we want to continue to build on that.”

Reese thoroughly enjoys patrolling the middle of the infield at the shortstop position.

“Defense is probably my best strength. It is fun getting the guys together and leading the infield,” Reese said. “I’m quick and I like to get the ball out early.”

Reese doesn’t let his natural skills on the diamond dissipate and is always striving for improvement.

“I try to get as many reps (infield work) as possible. I also do a lot of agility work and sprints. I usually do five sets of sprints at 15 yards,” he said.

Recently the Issaquah Reporter had an opportunity to ask Reese some questions about his life away from the baseball diamond.

Issaquah Reporter: What is your favorite movie of all time?

Tyler Reese: “The Sandlot.” It is an all-time classic.

IR: What is your biggest pet peeve?

TR: When people don’t work hard when they have talent.

IR: If you could pick one person to go to dinner with, who would it be?

TR: It would probably be Ken Griffey Jr. He is one of Seattle’s best sports stars.

IR: What kind of music are you listening to the most in your car right now?

TR: Country music because it’s baseball season.

IR: How many text messages do you send per day?

TR: I send probably 30 per day.

IR: What is something unique about you that nobody would know?

TR: I can play the trumpet.