The Prep Baseball Report Mississippi scouting staff recently sat down with Florence left-handed pitcher and first baseman, Walker Ladner to discuss his recent commitment to Hinds Community College. Below is a transcript of our question and answer session:

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process?
Ladner: It was difficult because I had some great colleges offer me but I feel like I chose the best school for me academically and athletically.

PBR: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?
Ladner: It did not, I chose Hinds because to me they were to best fit.

PBR: Where did the college you chose first see you? How did your relationship develop with them?
Ladner: Hinds saw me at one of the showcases my junior year and they have watched me play during our games.

PBR: Who is the best player you have faced in your state, and why?
Ladner: The best player that I have faced is probably Davis Bradshaw and Brandon Smith. Because they are both very talented players and very competitive players and will go far in life I believe.

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?
Ladner: I thought I was pretty good my sophomore year and when I became a junior I started getting serious about getting to the next level.

PBR: What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?
Ladner: I was looking for a program to push me to the best of my abilities to become a better ball player.

PBR: What is your best attribute as a baseball player and how does that transfer onto the field for your team?
Ladner: Best thing for me is getting everybody focused on what they have to do to get the job done.

PBR: What part of your game needs the biggest improvement, why, and what will you do to improve it?
Ladner: What needs to be improved for me is my velocity while pitching. And I will improve that goal by throwing everyday and getting stronger.

PBR: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?
Ladner: Never give up on what you want to accomplish and always go 110% no matter what.

PBR: What do you do in the offseason to keep yourself in baseball shape and prepare for the upcoming season?
Ladner: Go to the gym and hit in the cages every night and on some weekends hit on the field.

PBR: What do you like most about the college you committed to and what were the key factors in making your decision?
Ladner: The things I like most about Hinds is their coaches and the fact that have a strong baseball history of success.

PBR: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision? Ladner: East Central CC and Copiah-Lincoln CC