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Jake Stout, RHP, Rochester HS, Class of 2015

PBR: Why did you choose Toledo?

Stout: I chose Toledo because I felt very comfortable with the coaches and the campus on my visits, and they play in a very competitive conference. It is a great fit for me as a player and student.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Stout: I was also considering Oakland University and Lake Erie College. I committed early because I found Toledo to be the perfect fit, so I didn't heavily pursue other schools.

PBR: Where did the Coach Mee first see you? How did your relationship develop with their coaching staff?

Stout: I first met Coach Mee on my visit to the campus. Coach Bradford (Pitching Coach) was the first of the UT coaching staff to see throw. He saw me throw a bullpen at Motor City Baseball Club in January. My relationship developed through visits to campus and phone calls between myself and the coaching staff.

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play your first year on campus?

Stout: The coaches expect me to come in and compete for innings my freshman year. 

PBR: The Toledo campus is very close to home.  How much of a role did that play in your final decision?

Stout: It's always nice to be close to home. Toledo is the perfect distance to where I still feel as if I'm going away for college, but can also be close to family.

PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that you will help Rocket baseball?

Stout: My biggest strength as a player is my ability to throw multiple pitches for strikes. I feel like I can help UT baseball by coming in and working my hardest day in and day out. 

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was the most memorable experience from this summer?

Stout: This upcoming summer I will be playing for the 18U Detroit Metro Stars. For the past 8 seasons, I have been playing for the Motor City Hit Dogs. My most memorable experience was winning the state championship with my teammates, and throwing a perfect game this past summer.

PBR: Now that you have your commitment out of the way, what are your goals both individually and for the team for the rest of your senior season?

Stout: My goals for next season individually would be to go undefeated pitching in our league. My team goal is a league championship and a district championship.

PBR: What were your stats for last spring?

Stout: Last spring/summer I finished with a combined 9-4 record and a 1.95 ERA.

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter that you have faced?

Stout: The toughest hitters I have faced are Eric Gilgenbach from Stoney Creek High School, and Joe Popp from Clarkston High School.