Inside the Recruitment: '15 RHP Jake Szendrey commits to Ohio Northern
February 22, 2015
Jake Szendrey, RHP, North Canton Hoover, Class of 2015
PBR: Why did you choose Ohio Northern?
Szendrey: Ohio Northern University was the best fit for me for several reasons - the most obvious being the baseball program, but also the electrical engineering program and the location of the school.
PBR: What other schools were you considering?
Szendrey: Several Ohio Athletic Conference schools were interested in me, but because I plan to major in electrical engineering, Ohio Northern was the optimal fit for me.
PBR: Where did the coaching staff first see you compete?
Szendrey: The coaching staff first saw me at the Ohio Northern 2013 Fall Prospect Camp and then later at the PBR 2014 Top Prospect Games.
PBR: What role does Coach Stechschulte expect you to play during your first year on campus?
Szendrey: Nothing is guaranteed when it comes to any aspect of sports. I hope to play a big role in the pitching rotation, but the only way I will have a chance at achieving that is by working hard and continuing to improve my stuff.
PBR: Coach Stechschulte was a former MLB pitcher. How much of a role did that play in your decision, knowing you would receive some of his firsthand knowledge?
Szendrey: Knowing Coach Stechschulte was a former MLB pitcher did play an important part in my decision. In fact, most of the coaching staff are pitchers. I am looking forward to learning a lot from them over the next four years.
PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?
Szendrey: My dad has had the biggest impact on me as a baseball player. Ever since I was little he has pushed me to better myself in every aspect of life, not just baseball. For years I have thrown long toss and pitched with him. Even after all the baseballs taken to the shin, he still continues to catch me, something I don’t think that many other kids can say about their dad.
PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?
Szendrey: I play for the Ohio Yankees, which has been a great opportunity. My most exciting experience was winning several tournaments last summer with a great bunch of guys.
PBR: What were your stats last season?
Szendrey: Combined high school / summer: 12-3 record, 1 save, 1.32 ERA, 1.14 WHIP
PBR: Who is the toughest hitter you have faced?
Szendrey: Conner Thomson