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Josh Smith, LHP, Mansfield Madison, Class of 2015

PBR: Why did you choose Ashland?

Smith:  After attending a couple of showcases, I chose Ashland being it was close to home and after meeting both Coach Schaly and Coach Hilt I knew it was the right fit for me. They have a winning program at Ashland University appearing in the Regionals, World Series several times. I feel Coach Schaly and Coach Hilt will push me to improve to the next level in pitching and hitting. Ashland University also has a wide option of academic majors.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Smith:   Walsh University, Marietta University , Tiffin University, Notre Dame College , Xavier University, University of Northwestern of Ohio

PBR: Where did the Coach Schaly first see you? How did your relationship develop with him?

Smith:  Coach Schaly first saw me last year at Ashland Showcase, again this year at the PBR showcase, and finally at Ashland showcase where we first meet personally.

PBR: Ashland is making several new upgrades to their baseball facility. How much of a role did that play in your decision?

Smith: I love the improvements but my decision was made because of the great coaching staff there and that the players are working hard to return to World Series. Also the fact that Ashland has a winning program.

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?

Smith:  Work harder to improve my pitching and hitting for next spring’s season and help my team, Coach Rickert, and Coach Harris win another OCC championship and make a great run in the state tournament. Hopefully to make an appearance in the State Final Four.

PBR: What were your stats for last spring season at Mansfield Madison?

Smith: Selected All OCC, All District with a .395BA, helping team win the OCC with 4rbi’s against Lexington and 5rbi’s against Wooster in Championship Game.

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

Smith: There are several good hitters I have faced, but the toughest I would have to say was Cam Daugherty from Wooster High School.

PBR: What person has had the greatest impact on you baseball career and why?

Smith:  First I would like to thank Brandon Oswalt for all the work he did for me, sacrificing his time and helping me become a better pitcher and hitter over the last 5 years and getting me to the next level. I would say my father who was always there for me and pushed me to improve and encouraged me to never give up.

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

Smith: I played for the Galion/Mansfield American Legion team which was a honor playing for Coach Peterson. My most memorable experience was pitching and winning the championship game at the Lake Erie Classic as well as winning 2 other championship games that sent us to State Tournament.  The most memorable experience was playing on Beaver Field in the State Tournament, representing the American Legion.