By Matt Huck
Area Scout

2018 catcher Connor Manthey (Columbus) recently committed to Bradley. Manthey represented Wisconsin at the 2016 PBR Future Games and is the third player from this years team to commit to Bradley. Here is a report on Manthey from the Future Games.

Future Games 2016 - 6-foot-1, 205-pound catcher/third baseman, large strong build. Offensively hits from an open stance, short stride. Strong fast bat, shows pull side power, makes hard contact in BP and game play, good barrel control with bat strength. Hit a double with three RBI in game play. 89 mph exit velocity from the tee. Defensively got out of the crouch well, ability to block and recover well. Pop times ranged 1.97-2.05. Threw out a runner in game at 2.08, showed accurate arm with carry, 79 mph. Moves well for his size, ability to defend third base at a high level, good body control with above average range to glove side. 7.42 runner in the 60, 4.44 down the line.

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? Was it as expected? Easy/Difficult?

Manthey: At first, I thought the recruiting process would be a long, stressful process. But after talking to a couple coaches, I realized that was not the case. I enjoyed talking to coaches and getting to know each program.

PBR: What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Manthey: I was looking for a good program who would be able to win games with a good coaching staff. I also wanted a college where I could get a good education as well.

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

Manthey: Yes, my family has always been my biggest supporters in everything I've done. I wanted them to be able to easily come and see me play throughout college.

PBR: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Was there a particular game or event that you feel turned the corner for you?

Manthey: After they PBR Future Games this summer is really when the process began for me. A couple coaches saw me at the event and I started to get in contact with them.

PBR: Where did the college you chose first see you? How did your relationship develop with them?

Manthey: Bradley saw me towards the end of summer in a tournament in South Bend and after that we stayed in touch every so often after the summer ended. I went on a campus visit shortly after that. 

PBR: What do you like most about the college you committed to and what were the key factors in making your decision?

Manthey: Bradley has what I was looking for in terms of both baseball and education. I also really like their coaching staff and facilities they have. I like what Bradley baseball is all about and everything the university has to offer.

PBR: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?

Manthey: Tulane and Illinois State.

PBR: Who is the best player you have faced in your state, and why?

Manthey: Jeff Holtz is an amazing baseball player. I have played with him since I was 12 and seeing the damage he can do with a bat in his hands is incredible.

PBR: 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?

Manthey: Once I started playing for the GRB Rays I realized that college baseball could be a reality for me along with going to college showcases and competing with and against college committed players throughout the summers.

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

Manthey: My advice would be to always work hard, even when you think no one is watching. Every time you get a chance to play baseball, make the most of it.

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

Manthey: My most memorable moment so far would be playing in high level tournaments all summer with GRB. Coach Reinhard does an awesome job at getting our teams into some of the best tournaments in the nation against some of the best baseball players in the country.

PBR: Preview your high school season for us. How do you feel your team will be? What are your expectations and goals?

Manthey: We have a lot of talented returning players with good experience. We have high expectations as we do every year for ourselves. Our goal is to win conference and make a deep playoff run.

PBR: Where do you play in the summer? And what has been your most memorable experience with them?

Manthey: I play for the GRB Rays in the summer coached by Greg Reinhard. My favorite experience would have to be going down to IMG Academy in Florida and playing against the top teams in the nation hosted by Prep Baseball Report and sponsored by Under Armour.

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