MADISON – Laken Lansdell has played baseball since he was four years old. “It’s a sport that has been a major part of my life growing up. I aspire to play at the next level one day,” he said.

Previously, he played football and baseball until he tore his ACL in the eighth grade. “People used to ask me if I had to pick baseball or football which would it be … I always picked baseball. I’m passionate about the sport and blessed to play,” Laken said.

Laken plays pitcher, first base and outfield for James Clemens High School and the Diamond-Elite Marucci travel team. “I love the game in every way. It’s competitive, challenging and requires a great deal of skill and capability,” he said.

A junior at James Clemens, Laken is a member of National Honor Society and National BETA Club.

His 11-year-old sister Gracie attends Heritage Elementary School. “My dad Phillip is a regional director for H&R Block. My mom Crystal is a social worker and case manager for Crestwood Medical Center and Huntsville Hospital,” Laken said.

Five years ago, the Lansdells moved from Harvest to Madison so Lake and Gracie could attend Madison City Schools.

Q & A

Q: What are your favorite restaurants?

A: Salsarita’s, Chick-fil-A and Old Black Bear in Madison. Connors Steakhouse and Seafood in Huntsville.

Q: What are your favorite foods?

A: Bacon, mac-and-cheese. “And I love a good burger,” Laken said.

Q: What are your favorite sports teams? 

A: University of Alabama Crimson Tide football, Atlanta Braves baseball, New England Patriots football.

Q: What is your favorite sports memory?

A: “When I tried out for the Liberty Middle School baseball team, and I saw my name on the roster.”

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? 

A: “Spend time with family, hunt, eat and hanging out with my buddy, Landon Gray.”