Prep Baseball Report

Inside the Recruitment: '15 RHP Chris Sparks commits to Youngstown State



Chris Sparks, RHP, Crooksville HS, Class of 2015

PBR: Why did you choose Youngstown State?

Sparks: I Chose Youngstown State because of the great coaching staff that I'm confident in playing for and working with. I felt very at home while at Youngstown. The campus and facilities are top of the line, and I feel that I can Greatly improve there.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Sparks: Marshall, Eastern Michigan, and Ohio Dominican

PBR: Where did the coaching staff first see you and how did your relationship develop?

Sparks: The coaches first saw me play in the PBR Fall Prospect Program South. From there we continued to communicate and I visited Youngstown State Twice during the fall. After getting to see campus and getting to know the coaches it was an easy decision from there.

PBR: This summer you participated in PBR’s Top Prospects Games.  How did your performance help you in the recruiting process?

Sparks: I think my Performance helped to open some windows in the recruiting process and helped me gain interest from several programs.

PBR: How does it feel to be a part of a Division 1 baseball program?

Sparks: Being a apart of a Division 1 baseball program is a dream come true. It is a goal I have had for many years and have worked very hard to achieve.

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

Sparks: Ohio Elite (Noe). Getting to travel all over and play the best competition possible was a great experience. Also, getting to know my coaches and teammates, and spending time with them was great.

PBR:  What person has the great impact on your baseball career and why?

Sparks: Both of my parents have been. They have always been there for me pushing me to be the best I can be. They have also always given me the best possible opportunities to make myself better and get noticed. Without them I wouldn't be where I am.

PBR: What were your stats this spring season?

Sparks: 7-3 1.01 ERA  100K's

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

Sparks: Blake Jenkins