By Doug Hall
Tennessee Director of Scouting

Recently, James Muse, a Class of 2015 RHP from Christian Brothers HS, committed to continue his education and baseball career at the University of Tennessee.  We caught up with Muse to discuss his decision.

PBR: What was it about Tennessee that made it feel like the right fit for you?

Muse: There were no negative feelings I had when I made a visit, after taking a tour and meeting with the academic counselor along with the coaches I was ready to make a decision.  After making a few phone calls to family, coaches, and friends about my feelings towards making the decision they all said if I'm happy, they are too. They also, after seeing me a few times, were very straight forward with their interest in me which helped make my decision.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Muse: Memphis, Mississippi State, Murray State, West Virginia, Southern Miss, Ole Miss, UT Martin, Samford, Belmont  

PBR: Where did the coaching staff first see you compete?

Muse: Coach Thomas first saw me throw in Oklahoma when I was playing with Team Tennessee

PBR: What role does coach Serrano expect you to play during your first year on campus?

Muse: Coach Serrano told me I could help the team in many ways if I kept up the pace that I am currently going at.  I plan on long tossing and making my arm stronger in the fall to add some velocity to my fastball. 

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

Muse: My family has been behind me since day one, but my coaches from the Germantown Giants who I played for from age 8-14 who are coach Jeff Wright, Fred Sala, and John Randle who taught me my curveball which is one of my best pitches.  My coaches at CBHS have also made me who I am today, coach Buster Kelso, Phillip Smith, Shawn Morgan, Tommy Williams, and Joey Harris. Coach Larry Robinson and Kerry Sweeney from the Tigers.  Also all of my coaches from Team Tennessee. 

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

Muse: I play for my school team, CBHS in the summer and when I am not playing with them I play for the Memphis Tigers.  All of the trips I have made with both teams have been the most exciting experiences I've had this summer. 

PBR: What are your goals for your upcoming senior season?

Muse: My goals this upcoming season are to win a state championship.  We have the talent to win it and the coaching staff as well, but for personal goals I hope to add about 3 to 4 mph to my fastball which would put me at around 93. I also hope to grow as a leader for the upcoming players. 

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

Muse: The toughest hitters I have faced in Tennessee would be Von Watson, Thomas Dillard, Ayrton Schaefer, and Colton Neel.