Steven graduated Cum Laude from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Communications, focusing on film studies, journalism and theatre arts. Dubbed a "prolific" writer by Hollywood icon Kenneth Johnson (The Incredible Hulk, V, The Bionic Woman, Alien Nation), Steven has been honored by the Arkansas College Media Association for his story writing prowess. He has also received recognition for his dramatic writing from the Eerie, Shriekfest and Screamfest horror film festivals. Publications include: Carroll County News, Saline Courier, Forum, Echo and Moroch.

NEW YORK Bats, Beltran are back and badder than ever?

Posted Monday, February 23, 2015, at 9:35 PM

Carlos Beltran hopes to bounce back from an abbreviated 2014 season.

TAMPA, Fla. -- Carlos Beltran is yet another New York Yankee looking to bounce back from injury in 2014. Here underwent surgery to remove a bone spur and three loose pieces from his right elbow last September.

"I trained hard, I did everything that I did in the past," Beltran said regarding his return in 2015 and desire to play every day. "I want to be out there, no doubt."

Beltran was limited mostly to designated hitter for most of 2014. Beltron had a batting average of .233 with 15 homers and 49 RBIs in only 109 games. The outfielder said that he is able to throw at distances of 150 feet and that he feels ready to serve as an everyday right fielder.

"Every year, you have to prove yourself, there's no doubt about it," Beltran explained. "I always say, it doesn't matter what type of season you have, you always have expectations. I always felt like as a player, my whole career, I've shown up with the mentality of proving myself."

Beltran believes that A-Rod's return will help the Yankees, too. "Knowing a little bit about him, I think he's a guy that has a lot of pride for what he does," Beltran said. "I believe that he will show up in shape, that he wants to be out there and he wants to prove himself, too. If he is healthy, I do believe he can provide for the team."

Beltran's outlook on himself and improved play from Mark Teixeira and Brian McCann have him optimistic in 2015.

"I think we're going to be better than last year, no doubt about it," Beltran said. "Tex was dealing with his wrist still and it was McCann's first year in the league. He'll be more comfortable, second year. I think it's going to be better. There's no reason why it shouldn't be better if the health is there."