Michael Koltak, a right-handed pitcher from Upper Arlington High School, committed to The Ohio State University. Koltak, who participated in the Top Prospect Invite Only event in July, likely projects as a reliever at the next level as he throws from multiple arm slots. Read more about his recruiting process...

PBR: Which schools were you considering prior to committing to Ohio State?
Koltak: I was considering Miami University, Ball State University, and Denison University.

PBR: What were you looking for in a college/university?
Koltak: I really looked for a school that would give me a great education because baseball ends for everyone at some point or another. I want to be as successful off the field as I have been and hope to continue to be on the field in the future. Along with the education aspect, I was looking for a school where I felt that I would fit in well with the guys and get along with the coaching staff.

PBR: What did Coach Beals and the Ohio State staff present to you that made you feel comfortable? Was there a deciding factor?
Koltak: I really think that Coach Beals, Coach Holick, Coach Stafford, and Coach Newman as a staff in general made me feel like I was meant to be a Buckeye. They were so energetic and excited about the game, which matches my intensity and love for the sport really well. Also, I feel as if OSU is on its way to becoming a national powerhouse again which is something I look forward to be a part of.

PBR: Who did you play for this summer and who will you play for next summer?
Koltak: I played for the North Columbus Bruins this past summer. Next summer, I will be joining Ohio Elite (Huesman).

PBR: What awards and honors have you received so far?
Koltak: District Champion in 2010 and PBR “players on the cusp”

PBR: As a pitcher, what pitches do you throw and what are the velocities you have registered?
Koltak: From over the top, I throw 3 pitches. Fastball has topped at 87-88 mph. Changeup is 72-74 mph. Curveball is 78-79 mph. From my lower arm slot, I throw 2 pitches. Fastball is 81-82 mph and slider is 78-80 mph.

PBR: As you head into your senior year, what goals do you have?
Koltak: Going into this year, I have set the goal to win another District Championship. Pitching wise, I would like to establish myself as one of the most effective pitchers in the state by the end of the season.

PBR: What do you feel are your strengths?
Koltak: I think my general awareness on the mound sets me apart from others. I try to do the “little things” right because ultimately they are what win and lose ball games.

PBR: What areas are you concentrating to improve for the next level?
Koltak: I would like to master my changeup from over the top. Once I can really get a good handle on it, I would like to start to develop a changeup from my lower arm slot as well. I feel like having a change-up separates the good from the great.

PBR: What has been the most memorable moment on the diamond for you so far?
Koltak: last spring, I got the start against a very talented Dublin Coffman team. I got to face two of my buddies that are both great hitters – Ryan Leffel (Ohio State) and Austin Cousino (Kentucky). Cousino took one off the wall to lead off the game against me. But, I ended up striking both of them out during the game, which was pretty awesome since they were two of the best players in Ohio. Even though we lost the game, I loved the intensity and competition that was going on. Great atmosphere.