Hunter Smith, OF, Perrysburg

PBR: Why did you choose Miami?
Smith: It has been my dream to play college baseball since I was a kid and when I first stepped foot on campus, I knew Oxford was the place for me. I also have great respect for the coaches and players I got to meet on my visit back in October. It probably is one of the nicest campuses I have been on and their academic reputation is ranked high as well.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?
Smith:  Toledo, Ohio State, Kentucky

PBR: Where did the coaches first see you? How did your relationship develop with their coaching staff?
Smith:  The coaches first saw me in the division 1 state semi-final game in Columbus. On my official visit, I spent the weekend with Coach Simmonds and Coach Bachman. I was able to watch the coaches interact with the players and really saw myself fit into their system. I was really impressed with their style.

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play your first year on campus?
Smith:  They want me to come in as an athlete and play as many positions as needed.

PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that you will help Miami?
Smith:  I'm a team player and have always put my team before myself. I also think my speed and size are advantages to any team. I have a real love for the game of baseball and always strive to push myself to become a better player and person.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was the most memorable experience from this summer?
Smith: I played for Maumee Post 320 but this summer i'm currently looking for a travel team outside the Toledo area. My most memorable experience was the first week of summer and getting the chance to play in the state championship game. Despite the 2nd place finish, it was an honor to have been there. The season was a lifelong dream.

PBR: Now that you have your commitment out of the way, what are your goals both individually and for the team going into your senior season?
Smith:  Even though we lost 8 starters from last years team, we have a lot of young talent that has the chance to step up. Our goal is primarily to return to Columbus for a second straight year, as well as defending our league title. My goals individually are to hit close to .500, and to keep strikeouts to a minimum.

PBR: What were your stats for last spring season at Perryburg?
Smith:  Spring- .330 BA 14 RBI  1 2B 1 3B 4 HR .395 OBP .507 SLG    Summer- .460 BA 30 RBI 6 2B 9 3B 2 HR .573 OBP .937 SLG

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher that you have faced in Ohio?
Smith:  Taylore Cherry(Vandalia Butler)  Jesse Adams (St. Johns)  Adam Schaly(Ashland)