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Q&A with Oklahoma Commit Braden Minor

October 1, 2014

By Sean McCann
Prep Baseball Report Kansas

Following an impressive sophomore campaign for Goddard Eisenhower HS, right-handed pitcher Braden Minor recently announced his verbal commitment to Oklahoma.

The 6-foot, 170-pound righty posted a 6-1 record with 2 saves, a 1.75 ERA and only walked 11 batters in 64 innings pitched. He also hit .538, driving in 23 runs while playing outfield for the Tigers.

Minor helped lead Eisenhower to a second consecutive trip to the 5A state tournament in late May.  At seasons end he was named Gatorade Player of the Year in Kansas as well as KABC 5A All-State.

We had a chance to visit with Minor regarding his decision.

PBR: Why did you choose Oklahoma ?

Minor: I picked Oklahoma because of the amazing coaching staff and I see them having great success in the future.

PBR: What role does the coaching staff expect you to play during your first year on campus?

Minor: They have plans for me being a starter and taking on a big role in the program, maybe even being a DH.

PBR:  What things do you need to improve on before getting to Oklahoma ?

Minor: I need to improve on commanding my off speed more effectively and increasing my velocity.

PBR: Outside of your immediate family, who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player and why?

Minor: My uncle Blas has had the biggest impact because of his knowledge and understanding of the game, having the experience of playing professional baseball.

PBR: What were the highlights of your spring season as a team and individually?

Minor: As a team it would be making it back to the state tournament for the second year in a row and individually it would have to be winning the Kansas Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year.

PBR:  Tell us about your experience with the Wichita Reds organization and things they have helped you with in your development.

Minor: My experience has been a positive one, with all the guys willing to help and focus on things I need to work on. They have helped me be more consistent and prepared for every pitch.

PBR: What is the best advice you would give other high school players regarding the recruiting process?

Minor: The advice I would give is to not rush the process and enjoy it while it lasts. It’s an experience not everyone gets to have, so enjoy it while it lasts.

PBR: Who are the three toughest Kansas high school hitters you have faced?

Minor: Brylie Ware (Sedgwick HS, 2015), Joey Wentz (Shawnee Mission East HS, 2016) and Connor Kaiser (Blue Valley West HS, 2015).

PBR: You have seen a lot of Kansas high school baseball players over the last several months.  Who is one class of 2015 prospect you think might be flying under the radar that people need to know about and why?

Minor: Brylie Ware. The kid can straight swing it and not many people know who he is. Definitely a guy that's overlooked. 

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