Ready, Set, Beau

For 23-year-old Beau Hossler, swinging into the new season means first looking back—at his auspicious rookie year, his days as a Longhorn and his devotion to the Dodgers (which hurts, but just a little).

- Ryan Asselta

If you had to, how would you grade your first season on the PGA Tour?

I guess a C. I did a lot of positive things, but it certainly wasn’t up to par. I don’t think there are many guys out here who are competitive who are gonna be really satisfied with anything, right? I mean, as much success as you have, you always want more. That’s what keeps you going and keeps you working hard.

At last year’s Houston Open, you played in the final group on Sunday, ultimately losing in a playoff to Ian Poulter. What did you learn, being in that situation for the first time on Tour?

At every level I’ve played, it’s been a bit of an adjustment once I’ve gotten into contention. At the pro level, Houston was kind of the first week I busted out and played really well in contention. And, truthfully, I felt like I played well enough to win the tournament. I just got beat.

You had about a 30-foot putt on the 72nd hole to win, and it burned the edge. Do you still see that putt in your mind?

Not really. There’s no reason to get wrapped up in it. I hit a great putt, and that’s all you can do.

You also finished second at the Travelers. What about your game has helped you transition to this level so quickly?

I’ve putted probably as well as I’ve ever putted. It’s been the rock of my golf game. If you’re getting the ball in the hole, it makes scoring a lot easier.