Tanner Schimmoeller, RHP, Ottawa Glandorf HS, Class of 2014

PBR: Why did you choose Cincinnati?

Schimmoeller: Once I made my visit and met the coaches, saw the facilities and toured the campus I knew UC was the place for me.  The coaches, players and advisors really made me feel welcome.  Everything I saw was top notch.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Schimmoeller:  Several D1 schools in Ohio and a number of DIII schools in the Midwest.  The furthest from our area was in Virginia.

 PBR:  Coach Neal was just recently hired as the new coach at UC.  How does it feel to be a part of his first recruiting class? 

Schimmoeller:  Pretty special.  For Coach Neal to see me as an important part of his program is quite a compliment.  His faith in me is definitely a motivator to do all I can to make his recruiting me a good decision. 

PBR:  Coach Neal was a big part of the success at why Indiana went to the College World Series.  How quickly do you think that success can transfer to Bearcat baseball?

Schimmoeller:  I think as soon as he was hired at UC.  Anyone that has the past success he has had makes a difference right away.  During our conversation he talked a lot about attention to detail and his passion for taking UC to another level.  In talking with players, coaches and advisors they already see the positive change he has brought to the program.  There is no doubt Coach Neal is involved in every part of this program and it is making a difference already. 

PBR:  Where did the Coach Neal first see you compete and how did your relationship develop with the rest of the coaching staff?

Schimmoeller:  Coach Neal and Coach Heilmann took a recommendation from someone they trust that saw me at the PBR Unsigned Senior Games in September.  They took a look at my game video and contacted me right away.  Coach Heilmann was my first contact with UC and we talked several times before setting up a visit. On my visit, I got to meet all of the coaches and I was very impressed.  Coach Heilmann spent a lot of time on my tour of the facilities and campus and really made me feel at home.  My conversation with Coach Neal really sealed the deal.  He really made me feel part of the new direction with UC baseball. 

PBR:  You recently participated in the Unsigned Senior Showcase.  How much more interest did you receive after your performance at the event?

Schimmoeller:  A lot.  Before the games, several schools had contacted me.  After the games, I received contact from 12 more schools.  I think once coaches saw my game video and my development since last winter they raised their interest level alot.

PBR: What role does the coaching staff expect you to play during your first year on campus?

Schimmoeller:  Based on my conversation with Coach Neal, it’s important I get adjusted to school and put an emphasis on academics.  No player can make a difference on the field if they don’t have their school work straight.  So that will be my first priority.  Continuing my current strength training program into Coach Smith’s program will be important to be ready to play whatever role the coaches need me to play.

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

Schimmoeller:  I think I’m the type of teammate I would like to have and a coach wants to have.  It’s important to do what the team needs you to do for the team to be successful.  I always give 100% to help my team.  Individual performance is important but it’s only one part of the rest of the team.

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?

Schimmoeller:  The person who has had the biggest impact on me would by far be my Dad.  Ever since I was a little kid, my Dad has been giving up many hours of his time, pushing me to be the best player I can be.  Words can’t describe how thankful I am to have him in my life.  Without a doubt, he is the reason I am the player and the person I am today.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?

Schimmoeller:  The Fighting 63^rd American Legion Team in Ottawa, Ohio.  Getting good reviews from a Los Angeles Dodgers scout who saw me pitch in a tournament in Minnesota

PBR: What were your stats last season for Ottawa Glandorf?

Schimmoeller:  Our team finished 17-4 last year and lost a tough game in the Districts.  I was in the starting rotation and finished 4-0 with a 1.36 ERA in 30 innings. 

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

Schimmoeller:  Ty Suntken from Wauseon