The Prep Baseball Report Mississippi scouting staff recently sat down with West Lauderdal right-handed pitcher, Ben Ethridge to discuss his recent commitment to Southern Mississippi. Below is a transcript of our question and answer session:

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process?
I had heard that the recruiting process was exciting, however exhausting. When the process started it was much more exciting than expected.

PBR: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?
Yes, with it being close to home it makes easy travel for my family to come watch. 

PBR: Where did the college you chose first see you? How did your relationship develop with them?
They first saw me at the state games of Mississippi and the Southeastern underclass shootout, and after that we kept in contact and the relationship grew.
 

PBR: Who is the best player you have faced in your state, and why?
Landon Jordan because no matter what I threw him he always hit the ball hard somewhere.
 

PBR: At what point in your career did you realize you were an elite player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?
The middle of my freshman year when I got the chance to pitch and was able to strike out some of the juniors and seniors.

PBR: What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?
I wanted somewhere where I would be welcomed by the school and feel at home. I also wanted a coaching staff that had confidence in me and could help me take my game further.  Southern Miss was the answer for both.

PBR: What is your best attribute as a baseball player and how does that transfer onto the field for your team?
People say that I am more mature than my age. That is why I stay calm and have confidence in tougher situations than normal.

PBR: What part of your game needs the biggest improvement, why, and what will you do to improve it?
My hitting definitely needs the most improvement, as well as my breaking ball and i will keep working on mechanics for both and get better at it.

PBR: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?
Never be scared to ask for advice and suggestions from the people around you.  Also, always work hard to achieve your goals but also to enjoy the game of baseball.

PBR: What do you do in the offseason to keep yourself in baseball shape and prepare for the upcoming season?
I mainly do arm, leg, and ab strengthening exercises and throw to keep my body and arm in shape during the offseason, also to get stronger for the next season.

PBR: What do you like most about the college you committed to and what were the key factors in making your decision?
I felt like I was at home while on the campus. While talking with the coaches I felt like they cared about me as a person as well as the player. Along with community support and great education choices.

PBR: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?
South Alabama and Mississippi State showed interest along with several Junior Colleges across the state.

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