Q&A with Wisconsin-Milwaukee commit Dylan Szajkovics
October 17, 2018
RHP Dylan Szajkovics (Plainfield North, 2019) has been on the PBR radar since he first attended an event in 2016. Much has changed since that 2016 event when he checked in at 5-foot-11, 150-pounds and his fastball sat 75-78 mph. Szajkovics put on 20 pounds, grew an inch and has seen his velocity steadily climb, now sitting comfortably in the mid-to-upper 80’s.
After helping Plainfield North win a Class 4A state title this spring, the talented right-hander impressed multiple times over the summer and fall, before ultimately committing to Wisconsin-Milwaukee at the end of September.
We recently had the opportunity to discuss the recruiting process with Szajkovics, what he was looking for out of his college experience, and his favorite memories in baseball to this point.
LATEST SCOUTING REPORT
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Dylan Szajkovics RHP / Plainfield North, IL / 20198.7.18 - 6-foot, 170-pound, right-handed pitcher, well-proportioned, athletic frame, strength in lower half. Quick actions, rocker step to high knee balance, slight sit on back side, extends down the mound, toe lands closed, slightly rotational, rhythm in actions. Arm is long and loose with arm speed, high ¾ slot, repeats tempo. Fastball, arm side ride in the zone, flashed hard at times, sat 86-88 mph. Curveball, 11/5 gradual break in the zone, mixed in well in game play to throw off hitters timing, 68-69 mph. Changeup played 79 mph in warmups. |
OUR Q&A
PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? Was it easier or more difficult than you anticipated?
Szajkovics: I thought the recruiting process was going to be quick and cause little stress. It became a lot more difficult than I thought because I had to be at my best at all times. That caused a lot of stress but in the end I’m happy how it went.
P: What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at? Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?
S: I was looking for a school that was going to help me become the best player I could be and a place I had the chance to compete at as a freshman. Location wasn’t a big factor I just wanted to go somewhere my family could still see me play whenever they wanted.
P: Was there a particular game or event that you feel accelerated the buzz around you? When did UWM first see you?
S: The recruiting process started heating up after the PBR Preseason All-State showcase in February. There was a lot of schools reaching out after that showcase. UWM first saw me on video in 2017 and then attended a few games throughout the season this past year. I started talking with Coach [Cory] Bigler and immediately liked what I heard from him.
P: What do you like most about UWM and what were the key factors in making your decision?
S: I really like the coaching staff and the campus. Coach Bigler was a huge reason I made the decision. I really liked what he had to say and I knew I could learn a lot at UWM.
P: Who is the best player you have faced in your state? How so?
S: The best player I have faced is Gregory Ziegler from Joliet Catholic Academy. He put together some of the best at-bats and really made me work on the mound.
P: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college-caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?
S: After I joined Rhino Baseball, I started playing better teams and seeing all the scouts, I knew I wanted to play at the next level. After the 16U summer season is when I really started working hard.
P: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?
S: I would just say to keep working hard even when you don’t feel like it. Be patient because it’s one of the biggest decisions in your life don’t rush it.
P: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?
S: My most memorable moment in baseball is playing in Cooperstown. It’s something everyone has to experience.
P: Preview Plainfield North’s season for us. How do you feel your team will be? What are your expectations and goals?
S: After winning state, last year it’ll be a challenge to top that season, but we are working very hard as a team to repeat. I expect to pitch well and help the team keep up the tradition.
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