Tommy Henry, LHP, Portage Northern HS, Class of 2016

PBR: Why did you choose Michigan?

Henry: I chose Michigan because of the entire package. I enjoyed every second I spent talking with the coaching staff and learning from them. The coaches at Michigan know what they are doing, and I believe will develop me to be the best person you can be. I also love the campus. There is no college town like Ann Arbor, it's the perfect mix of city and campus. And lastly, the academics interested me very much. The degree you receive when you graduate Michigan is unlike any other and one that is recognized around the world.

PBR: What other schools were you considering? 

Henry: I was talking to Michigan, Michigan State, Western Michigan, Central Michigan, Cincinnati, Miami of Ohio, Duke, Maryland, Stanford, Wichita State, and Indiana State. I received offers from Western Michigan, Duke, Cincinnati, and Michigan.  

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

Henry: I believe the first time Coach Kenny saw me was in Georgia during the 2013 summer. From then on we talked on the phone weekly and we built a relationship through those calls and a few enjoyable visits. 

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

Henry: I have the opportunity to play as a 2-way player including pitching, hitting and playing the outfield. If I am able to perform high level at both, I will continue to play both ways.

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

Henry: I play for the Midwest Athletics. Summer ball has benefited me so much. Not only do I get to learn from and play for a great coach, Coach Blakely, but we compete at a high level which forces me to raise the level of my game. 

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

Henry: My dad has been there for me from the start. From playing catch in the backyard as a t-baller, to throwing batting practice to me today. His advice has been crucial in my development and has made me the player I am today. Further, Coach Blakely, and Dave Clark my pitching coach. I have worked with Dave for a couple of years. He has helped refine my motion, develop my curveball and my changeup. He has pushed me to become a 3 pitch pitcher. Dave has also been great at helping me develop my mental game. He has been successful developing other D1 pitchers and I will always be thankful for his time.

PBR: What were your stats for this spring season at Portage Northern?

Henry:  Batting Average of .393 with 17 RBI and 34 runs scored. On the mound, 6-1 record with 77 strikeouts in 54 innings and a .896 ERA. 

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

Henry: Playing in the SMAC you face great hitters each game. But Jarod Burton, Drew Blakely, Nick Jones, and Nate Jones are very tough to get out.