On Dec. 4, the PBR Wisconsin staff updated and expanded the state’s Class of 2021 Rankings and there was a new No. 1 sitting atop the board: Noah Miller. The sophomore shortstop has taken an elite leap forward over the last 12 months or so. Over that time, the Ozaukee prospect has stood out at several PBR-hosted tournaments and events, namely the PBR Fall Championships in Westfield, Ind.

There, Miller looked advanced in all phases of the game – he played a clean and smooth shortstop and is a natural switch-hitter. His on-field IQ is impressive and apparent and the tremendous strides he’s made has resulted in a new top spot on the Wisconsin board, top-100 recognition on the national rankings, and a commitment to a prominent baseball program in the University of Alabama.

Miller’s been busy this offseason starring on the basketball court for Ozaukee, but made the time to share his thoughts regarding his experience during the recruiting process. He also shared his advice for younger players seeking opportunities to play baseball after their high school careers end.

LATEST SCOUTING REPORT

Noah Miller SS / Ozaukee, WI / 2021 7/23/18 - 5-foot-10, 160-pound, lean, athletic, switch-hitting infielder. High-level middle infield defender. Advanced actions, easy fluid footwork and range to both sides, maintains body control, soft, confident hands and quick, clean transfer. Short, loose arm action, can throw from multiple slots, accurate throws topped at 79 mph across the diamond. At the plate, handles the bat from both sides. Balanced, quiet setup, smooth load and short stride. Stays short to the ball, looks to control the barrel and sprayed line drives. 82 mph exit velocity from the right side and 84 mph from the left. 4.69 runner, down-the-line.

Noah Miller (7/23/18)

OUR Q&A

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Miller: Having an older brother that had already gone through this made it seem a lot easier because my family and I knew what to expect. I was looking for a program that had a high level of competition. I was also looking for a school that would help me succeed academically.

P: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?

M: Not so much because I am used to traveling and being away from home, so it did not affect my decision. My family has traveled extensively through the last eight years for my brother and I during baseball season so that did not affect it either.

P: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Was there a particular game or event that you feel accelerated the buzz around you?

M: The recruiting process really started to heat up this fall for me especially when I played in Indiana for a PBR event and Florida for a Wilson Premier event. I started to talk to coaches on the phone and they really started to show some interest in me.

P: Where did Alabama first see you? What do you like most about the school and what were the key factors in making your decision?

M: They first saw me in Florida for a Wilson Premier event. My relationship with the coaches started by talking on the phone with them and attending a camp they hosted. I like the coaching staff, the winning environment on the campus, and the facilities are outstanding.

P: Who is the best player you have faced in your state? How so?

M: Joey Spence. He can really handle the bat and has good power to all fields. He is very solid behind the dish as well. I have also had a chance to play with him and he is a great teammate.

P: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college-caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?

M: I’ve grown up in a baseball family and, after seeing my brother get drafted out of college, I realized I had a legitimate chance to do the same.

P: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?

M: Play every game as hard as you can and never miss an opportunity to get better. Always strive to be better than you were yesterday.

P: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?

M: There have been several precious moments thus far, but verbally committing to the University of Alabama has had the largest impact on my life.

P: Preview your high school season for us. How do you feel Ozaukee will be?

M: This is the first year I am playing for my high school team. We will be a very young and developing team, but with the baseball experience I have, I am looking to lead my team to a successful season. With that I am hoping we can start a winning culture at Ozaukee for years to come.

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