Q&A With Braden Wells
Braden Wells came to Oregon State from Dixie State in 2007, prior to the Beavers’ second straight national title. He finished his career having played in 88 games over two seasons, collecting 40 hits and six runs batted in. Wells made an impact on the bases as a junior, stealing 11 bases in 14 attempts. He was an outstanding defensive player for Oregon State, making just one error over the two seasons while manning all three outfield positions.
Wells recently sat down with to reflect on his Oregon State career.
OSU: What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of OSU?
Braden Wells: “The first thing would be dogpiling in the middle of Omaha (at Rosenblatt Stadium). That will be a memory that will always be there for me. Last year was the best year of college baseball in my four years. I have a National Champion poster in my room and everything that says Oregon State baseball is on it.”
OSU: What would you say about your years here at OSU?
BW: “It was a great time. I wish I had four years here. I like my teammates and everybody associated with it. There was a certain attitude about the team with hard work. I don’t think a lot of programs can find that because there are so many prima donnas around the country that go to some of these big-time programs, but I think we have a certain mentality here at Oregon State that really sets us apart.”
OSU: What did the coaching staff mean to you on a personal level?
BW: “They are great people. They are people that will be there for me whenever I need them and especially off the field. If there is anything you need, they are there. I found over the past two years that if you need something, they are ones to call. I have the utmost respect for every single one of them.”
OSU: How special is it being a member of the 2008 senior class?
BW: It was real special. There are nine of us out there, and that is a pretty big senior class. There are a lot of guys who veer off at the end of junior year, so having nine guys and sharing that National Championship with most of them was pretty special. To be out here on the field with beaver nation and with our parents and getting honored was special. It was a good way to end my career.”
OSU: Has it really ever sunk in that you were a member of the 2007 National Championship team?
BW: It kicks in every now and then, but especially now since I am not playing anymore. I was going through all my stuff and here is all the National Championship gear and I wore my ring around yesterday. It is kind of nuts, because now we get to watch the guys on TV and knowing how those guys feel when they win it. It will be pretty cool.”
OSU: If you could give advice to a freshman who is coming to the OSU program next season, what would it be?
BW: “I would say to put your nose in the dirt and work your butt off because you have to earn everything. The harder you work, the better the outcome will be. Don’t take anything for granted.”
OSU: How do you want Oregon State fans to remember you?
BW: The way I played the game, how hard I played it and playing it the right way. That is what I pride myself on.”
