Lansing Sun

Nick Powers, a senior left-handed pitcher from Flushing, Michigan, reflects on his journey as a baseball player at Michigan State University. From a young age, Powers aspired to play for the Spartans and dedicated himself to achieving that goal.

"I've never wanted to be anything other than a baseball player," Powers said. "I really wanted to come [to Michigan State], so my work ethic changed. I would do extra work that no one else wanted to do, and ultimately that's what landed me here."

During his freshman year, Powers faced an eight-month setback due to a lat injury. This experience provided him with valuable perspective on the fragility of an athletic career.

"I realized that you're just one pitch away, one play away, one game away from never playing the game again," he shared. "It was eye-opening because I was so blinded on having success."

Powers' involvement in a peer-to-peer mentorship program during high school also shaped his outlook. He was paired with someone with autism who remains a close friend.

"It's eye-opening to realize just how lucky we are to have all the things we have," he noted.

As Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities emerged during his time at MSU, Powers partnered with Charitable Gift America to support Miracle League of Mid-Michigan—a nonprofit organization providing baseball opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

"Allowing kids with those disabilities to play the game that I love so much meant so much to me," Powers explained.

Looking ahead, Powers will graduate with a degree in advertising this fall. He acknowledges that his time as an athlete is limited but embraces each moment remaining in his college baseball career.

"Every day I practice...I see it as an opportunity to build memories," he reflected. "Next year when I won't be playing anymore...I'll look back on those days."

Powers' approach has not gone unnoticed by Caleb Sleeman, MSU's pitching coordinator and former pitcher: "He doesn't blow you away with his fastball...but he gets people out like it's his job."

The Spartans will conclude their regular season by hosting Nebraska in a three-game series from May 16-18. Saturday's game will serve as Senior Day for MSU players and managers including Nick Powers.

Fans can follow the games through various platforms available at MSUSpartans.com while staying updated via @MSUBaseball on Twitter for any schedule changes.