Hi, my name is Erick Ballenilla and a lot of people called me lafibra. I was born in the Dominican Republic and grew up in New York, where I fell in love with baseball. I’m 21 years old and the 2025 MVP shortstop for St. Thomas University, where I also pitch. Baseball has shaped me into a disciplined, versatile, and resilient athlete, and this year my goal is to help lead my team to the College World Series. I’m proud to represent both my Dominican roots and my New York upbringing, carrying that passion and drive into everything I do. Beyond the field, I focus on growth, leadership, and building connections with people and brands that share my values of hard work, perseverance, and excellence. For me, baseball isn’t just a sport — it’s a platform to inspire, connect, and leave a lasting impact.