Q and A with 2012 Marshall Commit Brandyn Sittinger

Brandyn Sittinger (right), the 18th ranked prospect in the Class of 2012, has committed to Marshall University. The talented right-handed pitcher discusses his recruiting process and the reasons behind his commitment. Read more ...

PBR: Why did you choose Marshall?
Sittinger: My dream has always been to play down south and going to Marshall, who plays in Conference USA, allows me to travel down south while staying north and somewhat near home. 

 PBR: What other schools were you considering?
Sittinger: I was considering quite a few schools but in the end I narrowed it down to Ohio State, Youngstown State and Marshall.

PBR: Where did Marshall first see you? How did your relationship develop with their coaching staff?
Sittinger: The coaching staff first saw me at The Buckeye Scout in early August and made an offer the day after they had saw me pitch. Our relationship began to develop very quickly and I felt that Coach Waggoner and Coach Renner could help develop me into a better pitcher.

 PBR: Did you want to leave the state? Did distance have a factor in your decision making process?
Sittinger:  I wanted to get out of Ohio just because it's always so cold here in spring and at Marshall they make many southern trips. Distance didn't really make a difference but Marshall being only three and a half hours away allows me to go home and visit every once in a while or go home if I ever need anything. 

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play your first year on campus?
Sittinger: The coaches told me they expect me to play a big role on the pitching staff and battle for a starting job.

PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that you will help Marshall?
Sittinger: I feel that I am a pitcher who is willing and eager to learn and can keep my composure on the mound. I feel that Coach Renner, the pitching coach, can develop me into a better pitcher and help me help the team excel.

 PBR: You aren’t a 6-foot-4, 200-pound pitcher. Being a smaller athlete, do you use that for motivation when you get on the mound?
Sittinger: Currently being a 6-foot, 170-pound pitcher, I feel that hitters under estimate me until they actually get into the batters box. I throw a little harder than they expect.

PBR: What do you feel is the biggest part of your game that needs to improve in order to excel at the next level?
Sittinger: I feel I need to get my change-up more consistent. Right now it is there, but not always accurate. I love going to my change-up, but it needs to become more developed so I can become more of a four pitch pitcher .

PBR: What was the most memorable experience from this summer?
Sittinger: The whole recruiting process is something I will never forget, it was fun and stressful at the same time.

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?
Sittinger: My father has definitely made the biggest impact on me as a baseball player and a person. He always told me to give 110% and never let anyone tell you that you can't do something.

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter that you have faced in Ohio?
Sittinger: I have faced many tough hitters from Ohio but I'm going to have to say Clay Wright from Wellington High School is the toughest hitter I have ever faced. He always fights deep in the count and somehow always puts the ball in play. He is a very good under-rated player.