For half of today’s teammate commitment spotlights, PBR will be focusing on Minnetonka RHP David Roderick. Roderick is a true product of routine, work, and patience that it requires to not only reach your goals now, but in years to come. The first time he came through a PBR showcase, a year and a half ago, he was a tall and lanky with a low 80’s fastball that had projectability. Since then, he has increased his velocity 3-4mph every time we have seen him and continues to add size to the once lanky frame. His lower half drive has come along and with it, an improved change up as well. A high leg kick and out-front extension to the plate keep hitters honest with their timing and give late life to all pitches. We look forward to tracking David in the future and although he will admit there is a lot of work still to do, the path seems clear and the ceiling high for this righty.

PBR: Why did you choose the University of Oklahoma?
I chose the University of Oklahoma because I felt like I was at home when I took my visit there. I felt like I could spend the next couple years there to develop and keep getting better. I also loved the campus and enjoyed talking to the coaches.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?
I was very fortunate to be in contact with many other schools at the Division 1, Division 2, Division 3, and JUCO level. 

PBR: Where did the coaching staff first see you? How did your relationship develop with them (Phone calls, on-campus visits, etc.)?
The coaching staff at OU first saw me throw at the WWBA Championships down in Jupiter, Florida. From there, I became familiar with the coaching staff through phone calls and texts. After that we set up a visit, and I headed down to Norman. 

PBR: Was there one deciding factor that put your choice over the top?
The thing that really pushed OU to the top of my list was the coaching staff. I felt like I could develop under them and become not only a better player, but a better man as well. 

PBR: Who has helped you the most to get to where you are today?
There are many people who have helped me get to where I am today, but I especially want to thank my parents for their unconditional support. I also would not be the player I am today without my pitching coach Bret Mitchell from Starters Sports. We spent a lot of time refining my mechanics and my pitches and I am glad that I had the opportunity to play under him. 
 

PBR: What plans do you have in store for you in your freshman season at your new school?
I plan to keep working hard and hopefully get some playing time as a freshman and go from there. 

PBR: What advice would you give to others that are currently or will soon be going through the recruiting process?
The best advice I can give is to just be patient in the process. Lots of guys are rushing and scrambling to find a school. The thing is, there is still so much time left to find the right fit.  

PBR: Are you competing in any fall or winter sports?
I played fall baseball with Starters and the Cangelosi Sparks, and I am currently playing rec basketball this winter.

PBR: Minnetonka looks to be pretty deep with talent again this year. Tell us about your team in terms of goals for the season and strengths Minnetonka possesses that will be pivotal in helping to get there (pitching, defense, offense, chemistry, etc.). 
We have a pretty deep team this year, but I would have to say our pitching is our biggest upside. We have a lot of depth there and a lot of guys who can do some damage. Our goal, like every other year, is to win a state title. 



Wanting to attend a PBR showcase? Click Here for Information!