Matt Fowler, LHP, Kings HS, Class of 2014

PBR: Why did you choose Cincinnati?

Fowler: I choose UC because of Coach Neal and what he can bring to win us some games. It's close to home and I instantly fell in love with the campus.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Fowler: I was considering Air Force, West Point, Bowling Green, Toledo, and Furman.

PBR:  Coach Neal was just recently hired as the new coach at UC.  How does it feel to be a part of his first recruiting class?   

Fowler: It's a honor. Coach Neal brings a lot to the table, especially in the recruitment process. We have a strong group of guys already committed in the 2014 class that can hopefully go in and win games.

PBR:  Coach Neal was a big part of the success at why Indiana went to the College World Series.  How quickly do you think that success can transfer to Bearcat baseball? 

Fowler:  I think his success can transfer smooth and easily. He wants to accomplish big things, as he did at Indiana, and nothing will stop him short of that.

PBR:  Where did the Coach Neal first see you compete and how did your relationship develop with the rest of the coaching staff?

Fowler: Coach Neal first saw me at the Top Prospect Games and then another time after that in a tournament. The coaching staff is all in with Coach Neal and I'm excited to be apart of something like that.

PBR: What role does the coaching staff expect you to play during your first year on campus?

Fowler: He would like for me to compete, earn some time as a freshman and develop a role among the pitching staff. 

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

Fowler:  My biggest strength as a player would be my ability to keep others focused and working hard. One person can't win it by himself, so when it comes to the game of baseball, the team all has to be in union. I will buy into the program and try to achieve big things.

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?

Fowler: The person who has had the biggest impact would be my father. He's been by my side though the whole recruitment process; traveling with me, sending emails, etc. I really couldn't be more blessed to have a understanding baseball dad.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?

Fowler: I play for the Dayton Dodgers in the summer. My best experience would definitely be this past weekend when we went to Nashville and went 5-1. I loved playing for this team and getting to know a bunch of new teammates.

PBR: What were your stats this summer?  

Fowler: This summer I went 5-2 with a 2.4 ERA, with close to 40 innings.

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

Fowler: The toughest hitter I've faced would be Ben Hughes.  He is a contact swinger with a added speed and definitely a tough out.