Q&A With Vanderbilt Commit Colton Sims

One of the more pure and polished offensive threats in the state, INF Colton Sims (Shawnee Mission East, 2025) finished his summer and fall on a tear, culminating in an eventual commitment to Vanderbilt.

A physical 6-foot-2, 190-pound athlete with all sorts of barrel feel and balance, Sims propelled his Shawnee Mission East squad to a regional championship this KSHSAA season before performing at each stop on the summer circuit. He earned himself an invite to the PBR Future Games as a result and came away with plenty of momentum behind him, turning heads during the workout portion as well as when he launched a home run in game. Sims drew the attention of Shooter Hunt, our Vice President of Scouting, who had nothing but positives to say about him within his Shooter's Future Games Standouts article:

From 8/11/23: "...Sims continued his consummate hitterish vibes that have been seen for well over a year now including a booming home run. At 6-foot-2, 190-pounds there is some present durable strength on his athletic frame, and looks to have much more on the way. Posting a max exit velocity of 97 mph in batting practice, he combined that with some sneaky athleticism that included a 7.03 60-yard dash time with quality movements at the hot corner. However, the bat is what is sure to be the calling card. A toe-tap stride allows the hands to strike the barrel through the zone with real impact that includes a two-handed finish. The simplicity of the approach combined with impressive torque (and the bat speed) shines well on the future run-producing potential."

OUR Q&A

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Sims: At first my expectations weren't too high, I just wanted to find a spot that wanted me, believed in me, and had good facilities.

PBR: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?

Sims: Location was one of my biggest things when picking my spot. I don't like the cold so warmer spots were on the top of my list.

PBR: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Where did the school you committed to first see you play?

Sims: I'd say towards the end of last summer is really when the big names became interested in me. Vanderbilt first saw me play at East Cobb.

PBR: What do you like most about the program you chose, and what were the key factors in making your decision?

Sims: The main reason I chose Vanderbilt was the coaches. Showing up to a camp I felt that the coaches and I immedietly had a good connection. After that, it's in a fantastic area, great education, and amazing facilities.

PBR: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?

Sims: Notre Dame and TCU.

PBR: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?

Sims: One thing I would tell every kid is that "pressure is a privelege".

PBR: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?

Sims: My most memorable moment of my baseball career was my freshman year - first career hit in high school ball was a home run.

PBR: Preview your high school team's season for us. How do you feel your team will be?

Sims: Personally I think we have a great shot to take a couple pieces of hardware back home.

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