Prep Baseball Report

Inside the Recruitment: '15 OF Rees Rua commits to Lake Erie



PBR: Why did you choose Lake Erie?

Rua: I chose Lake Erie because Coach McGee and the rest of the staff really spoke highly about me and seemed like they really wanted me to be a part of the program. Also I really liked the campus on my visit and the programs the school offered.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Rua: I was also considering Tiffin, Wheeling Jesuit, and Toledo

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

Rua: The coaches first saw me at the Crossroads Series Showcase at Wright State University. I've known Coach McGee since I was in 6th grade because my brother Ryan played for him at Lake Erie so I have a pretty good relationship with him.

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

Rua: My first year on campus they expect me to become stronger, faster, and develop as a player. Last year the team finished 2nd in the GLIAC tournament and also made it to the Division 2 NCAA tournament which is a very good accomplishment.  I will have to work my way up and put in a lot of work to get on the field and I am very excited for next year.

PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that you will help Storm baseball?

Rua: I believe my best strength is my defense, being able to get after any ball in the outfield, cover a lot of ground, and throwing runners out. I take pride in my defense and expect to help the team as soon as possible! 

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was the most memorable experience from this summer?

Rua:  In the summer I play for the Lake Erie Warhawks out of Oberlin College. The most memorable experience I had this summer was winning the griffin sports tournament at Baldwin Wallace.

PBR: What were your stats for last spring season?

Rua: Last spring I batted .348 with 3 HR, 14 stolen bases, 6 doubles, and 18 RBI’s

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher that you have faced in Ohio?

Rua:  The toughest pitcher I faced was Perry Della Valle who is now at Seton Hill.