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Q&A with Barry commit Omar Baldo

February 7, 2015

By Rob Sidwell
Florida Scouting Director 

Omar Baldo, a Class of 2018 switch-hitting catcher from Keys Gate Charter HS, was one of the first 2018 players to verbally commit when the 5-foot-10, 160-pounder choose Barry University recently. Baldo took some time out of his schedule to answer some questions about his decision.

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

My expectations were to hear about a full scholarship and being one of the top players in their database. It was definitely what I expected and it was kind of an easy process.  

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

I am looking for a program with a great catching coach that will get me ready for the pro level, knowing that my dad won’t be with me the majority of the time anymore. (My father is my trainer)

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

Absolutely not, Barry is a great program and even thou they are D2, my family and I feel I will be taken care off there.

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?

In my 8th grade year. I just started getting attention from all these college coaches in every event I when too. (Thank GOD!!!!)  I don’t know maybe after perfect game???

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

Barry University first saw me in one of their events they had when I was in 7th grade playing with my dad’s 18u travel team. The relationship first started when I attended The Complete Showcase last summer as an 8th grader.

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

Most importantly was the interest they showed for me. Also, promising a full scholarship which means my dad won’t have to pay. Second, the success the program has had in the past both Ranking and Drafting. Third, the coaching staff, they are definitely what I’m looking for out of a program, not only with a very knowledgeable head coach to help guide me the right way but also with a great catching instructor to help continuing my development, which is very important to me.

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

FSU, UF, UCF, USF, DUKE, VANDERBILT, UM

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

I have played with a lot of great players but I guess I will have to say this kid name Xavier Edwards. He’s a switch hitting 2018 SS with incredible hands and IQ for the game. Also this other kid by the name of William Sanchez 2016 RHP. He’s a great pitcher with a big league change up which makes him very hard to hit.

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?

All my life since I have been playing. I practice hard every day to get better. There’s no reason why I can’t make it all the way to the big leagues.  

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

Be humble and never stop working while playing 120%.

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

Making the south Florida 14u USA team, 15u National USA trials Team (Top 40 in the nation), Commitment to Barry University, lettered as in 8th grader and awarded the MVP plaque.

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

I think this will be are best year due to the chemistry and players we have. I expect to win it all!! And my goals are to have a great freshman season and make lots of noise for my school.

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

I play with Palm Beach Select Underclass.  Every experience has been memorable but maybe the most memorable has been playing and training under my coach Jovon Edwards and my dad Omar Baldo Sr. which I really believe bring out the best in me.

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