How did Aaron Westlake become one of the best power hitters in college baseball? Just find him in the weight room.

We all know that the Tigers have one of the best first baseman in the game in Miguel Cabrera. He has mammoth power, great contact and a pretty darn good glove at first base.

But when the opportunity comes to take a player like Aaron Westlake, you don’t pass it up. Westlake was considered maybe the best power hitter in college baseball this past season, which was only solidifed by his .344/18/56 stat line.

Aaron has some great goals set for himself, along with a drive to become to best he can be. Read what this slugger had to say, after the jump!

1. Being born in California, were you a fan of the Angels, Dodgers, Padres, Giants or Athletics growing up? Who was your favorite player?

AW: Giants.  I loved watching Barry Bonds hit.

2. You were known as one of the best power hitters in college baseball, where did you get your strength/ability for the long ball?

AW: I worked hard in the weight room to get stronger and worked every day in the cages on staying on the ball as long as possible which creates more backspin and ultimately distance on the ball.

3. What was it like to play in the College World Series in your last year with Vanderbilt?

AW: It was an unbelievable experience and a dream come true.  We reached our goal as a team that we worked very hard for all year, and I was just honored to be apart of that experience. 

4. What is it like to be drafted into the Major Leagues? How did you celebrate?

AW: It is an honor as well to be drafted.  There was not too much to celebrate because we were focused on the super regionals against oregon state.  I called my family and close friends about it, but that was about it.

5. Your teammate at Vandy, Curt Casali was also drafted by Detroit, what do you think of that?

AW: I think it is awesome that I have the opportunity to keep playing on the same team as Curt.  He is a very good player and an even better friend and teammate. 

6. What are your future baseball goals?

AW: My goal is to have an opportunity to make it to the major leagues.  By doing so I am going to continue to work hard and prepare the same way I have been doing my whole life that has gotten me to this point.  I will take in everything that I learn, and most importantly I will continue to have fun playing this game.  If you are not having fun, then there is no point in playing the game.