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 Ryan Paul, RHP, Lansing Catholic, Class of 2015

PBR: Why did you choose Kalamazoo?

Paul: I chose Kalamazoo because off the high academic standards and all the opportunities that would present themselves over my four years at Kalamazoo. I also loved the campus and really loved how the coaches are building up the program and have set high but achievable goals for the program. I know that the coaching staff is going to push be to be the best student athlete I can be.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Paul: The other main contender was Hope College. 

PBR: Where did the coaches first see you? How did your relationship develop with the coaching staff?

Paul: I went to some showcases over the summer and received recognition there and I also contacted many coaches and sent in some game film. I started emailing back and fourth with the coaches and planned a official visit. After meeting with the coaches there was more and more contact and I went for a second visit and met more of the coaches and staff at Kalamazoo.

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play your first year on campus?

Paul: The coaches want me to come in as a pitcher and develop as a player most likely in the bullpen my first year.

PBR: What summer team do you play on and how has travel baseball helped your development as a player?

Paul: I play for the Mid Michigan Aces. Travel ball has really helped me develop as a player because I face some really good talent in tournaments all over the state. It taught me mental aspects of the game against some big time players that really helped me develop as a pitcher as it taught what pitches to throw and when to really have the advantage against the hitters.

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?

Paul: All my coaches have had throughout high school and summer ball because they really pushed me to become a better player. They all saw the potential in me and really played important roles in the player I am today. 

PBR: What were your stats last spring?

Paul: I missed the first half of my junior year because of Mono but I came back for the second have and finished with a 5-1 record and an ERA of 1.75.

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter that you have faced in Michigan?

Paul: The toughest hitter I've faced in Michigan is probably Tyler Gulik. He played for East Lansing and it seemed like no matter where you put the ball he was driving it into the gaps. He was a great player and he is now at Hope and I look forward to facing him again in the future.