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Aiden West knew the offers he coveted and the schools he wanted to play baseball at. Once he got the chance, there was little need for pretense.
Despite being in the 2025 class and spending three more seasons in high school baseball, West committed to North Carolina State shortly after receiving an offer from head coach Elliott Avent and assistant Chris Hart.
The shortstop at Long Reach High School (Columbia, Md.) has Wolfpack pedigree as his grandfather, Eddie West, played for the Wolfpack in the 1950s.
But the familial vibe and legacy with baseball diamonds, especially middlefielders, was the reason West decided to run with the pack.
Rob Macram All-Wolfpack’s .
all wolf pack Most recruits prolong the process and decide where to go to college later in their high school career. What led you to that decision?
West Knowing that I was the first committing shortstop in my class was a big deal for me.After being on campus a few times, I really fell in love with Doak Field and the campus as a whole. After that tournament, I was touring with my dad, and I knew this was my place, so I decided to commit early. I was excited to work with the coaches there.
all wolf pack What do you think of the coaching staff in North Carolina?
West they are great When I went to camp they were so much fun and I could see that it was definitely a coach that I would want to put my name on and play with. I feel that they will provide the best coaching that I need to continue.
all wolf pack I’m back in North Carolina, but I’d like to backtrack here. When did baseball become part of your life? Does your family have a gaming background?
West I started playing T-Ball when I was about 4 or 5 years old, and I just kept going. My grandfather, Eddie West, was actually a catcher at North Carolina State, so that’s one of the big reasons he’s why I’m at North Carolina State. he was a catcher
all wolf pack Because of your family background and early commitments, North Carolina State University seems to have always been a preferred destination.
West North Carolina State University has been one of my dream schools ever since I was a little girl. It’s been that way ever since I found out my grandfather played there and a few guys like Jose Torres attended a private school near where I live. He’ll stop there in his 2021 lead them to a crazy College World Series. When they first contacted me, my dream began to come true.
all wolf pack When were you first contacted by North Carolina State University?
West IIt was around midsummer of 2021.
all wolf pack You talked about the pedigree with North Carolina State, but the Wolfpack also has a shortstop pedigree. What does that mean and the pressure to live up to that standard?
West It means many things. I have so much respect for people like Trea Turner. Obviously, knowing that there were so many great shortstops and players before me means a lot to me. Once I get there, I hope to one day continue that legacy. I just see pressure as a privilege. I’m looking forward to getting there and the pressure really motivates me.
all wolf pack What are your strengths and what do you want to improve?
West I definitely think I’m a field officer. When I’m in the shortstop, I’m in control of the outfielders and telling them where to go. Especially if you know your hitting tendencies based on your previous at-bats. I definitely think we’re talking about that. That’s good. And I play aggressive at bat, but I’m not just going to rush into pitches in a good way, but if I get hit, or if there’s a pitch I know I can hit, I’m not going to just sit there and take. that. I go ahead and shake it.
One of the things I’m really working on right now is picking up different pitch spins to make curveballs faster and better recognizable… once you get to Raleigh it’s going to be a lot easier.
all wolf pack Do you know what you want to major in at North Carolina State University?
West I’ve seen many people doing sports management in the baseball club, so I’m thinking that right now.
all wolf pack What do you think of the coaching staff at North Carolina State University?
West I love it. i love avent He is so wonderful to me and my family. I still remember the phone call when I told him I was coming to North Carolina State University. I actually called Hart first and then I called Director Avent.
Interesting story. Coach Avent says his mom loves to write people cards, so she actually cards in her shop. I heard him talking.I sent my name and who I was.Then I told him I was coming in.Player personnel) a lot.
Coach Hart is great. He was also very excited when I made the call. He welcomed me into his family early on and was happy that I was committed to North Carolina State University. I call him at least 3-4 times a month so we actually talk pretty well. He helps me with my swing even when I’m not there yet. He’ll tell you what approach they’re using right now so he can use it in his game before he gets there.
all wolf pack How important is it to have that relationship now?
West IIt’s crazy. It helps an insane amount. I think some people just don’t realize how calm and comfortable they can get into things just by talking to their future coach. the way they do it there.
all wolf pack How good can North Carolina State perform this season?
West I’ve been talking to Coach Hart and their men, they’re under a lot of impact pressure. For example, Eli Serrano comes in. He has a great outfielder. I think it’s going to be a great season with players like Peyton Green coming back. Losing Tommy (White) certainly hurt a little bit, but I think we still have people who can make up and make an impact. Hopefully (I) can see the region.
all wolf pack How much does it mean to you to wear a North Carolina uniform and hit Doak’s field?
West It means the world to me. I hope many families will be there at that time. I am very much looking forward. That’s why I keep working. I’ve worked even harder since I committed and haven’t slowed down at all. I am very much looking forward to getting there someday.
all wolf pack Are you planning on catching some games this season?
West Last year we were about 4 or 5 hours away so we were able to get off twice. I would like to go at least twice this year.
all wolf pack What are your impressions of other recruits coming to North Carolina and what are your goals for your time in college?
West I talk a lot with other people who come to my class. I’m going to spend 3-4 years of my life. For me, it’s definitely important to keep talking, and my goal when I get there is to be influential from the day I get there.
I want to be an influential freshman on and off the field. And I want to build connections with all types of people out there, other athletes, other academics. I just want to leave my mark on North Carolina State University and I am working hard to get there.
all wolf pack Announcing your social media efforts has allowed more NCSU fans to connect with you. What is your message to Wolfpack Nation?
West Wolfpack Nation has already shown us a lot of love. Many North Carolina baseball fans congratulated me when I posted the commitment and already felt truly loved. I can’t wait to get there and see some of the fans in person, play in front of them and be proud to wear that jersey.
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