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Q&A with Fairmont State commit Jordan Tapley

February 2, 2016

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By Jerry Shank
Maryland Scouting Director

PBR Maryland strives to be the most comprehensive source of player information across the state. The Prep Baseball Report is the No. 1 resource for high school baseball in each state we cover through our variety of events, boots-on-the-ground scouting staff, daily coverage, and multimedia platforms. Our multimedia platforms and events work in tandem, ultimately creating the most powerful source of high school baseball promotion in each state.  While other organizations take a national approach, our goal is to become the authoritative voice on the ground level of each state.

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Today we chat with Fairmont State University (WV) commit RHP Jordan Tapley of Smithsburg HS.

Name: Jordan Tapley
Position: RHP
Class: 2016
Ht/Wt: 6-foot-1, 175-pounds
HS: Smithsburg
PBR Rank: No. 62 in MD Ranks, No. 18 RHP

Scouting Report
10.25.15 - Athletic frame at 6-foot-1, 175-pounds. Throws from a high three quarter arm angle with sound arm action and quick arm speed. Nice hip load and good balance throughout delivery. Shows nice lower half usage. Could get more backside drive to clear hips over front side. Shoulders stay square, is in line to plate. Pitches with some effort. Fastball has gradual run to the pitch up to 85 mph. When gets more in front, starts to get sink as well. Breaking ball has 12/6 action at 69 mph. Changeup is a plus pitch with late life and dive to the pitch at 77 mph.

What made Fairmont State University the right fit for you?
+ I chose Fairmont based more on the academic standing for my future. They are one of the best Criminal Justice schools in the nation, and that will help me with my future career plans. Coach Caruso has the same beliefs and values and wants his teams to play the same as Coach Cobb at Smithsburg. That will hopefully make the transition easier.

What was the recruiting process like for you?
+ Because of undergoing Tommy John Surgery and the recovery, the recruiting process was slow. But from the time I started talking to the coaches at Fairmont State, the process was pretty quick. The process between first communication to the official visit went along with zero problems and was a great experience.

What other schools did you consider?
+ Hagerstown Community College

What were key factors you were looking for in your college decision?
+ The coaching staff was a huge factor. I looked for a staff that had the same goals and values as myself. I wanted a school that had a good academic standing in my field, and a place where I could compete to play as a freshman.

What are your goals now before you graduate?
+ I want to help lead FSU to a Mountain East Title, and a National Tournament Appearance. I want to help be the movement that gets Fairmont State baseball back on the map!

When did things start to pick up in the recruiting process?
+ Would have to say after the American Legion State championship game I threw in.

What are you going to bring to Fairmont State as a freshman?
+ I am going to bring a great work ethic, a strong passion for my sport, and great leadership skills. I want to start as a freshman and help my team win baseball games.

Who is the best player you have played against?
+ Tyler Mondile, Brooklawn Legion, NJ

What summer program did you play for and what did you learn with them?
+ Frederick Hustlers, and Funkstown Legion, I learned how to play against the best of the best in competition. Playing against the best taught me how to pitch, and really brought out the best in my pitching abilities.

Do you have any advice for younger players beginning to/going through the recruiting process?
+ Take it slow, you do not have to play for fancy expensive showcase teams to get seen. Perform well, and your name will get out there. The right school will come calling, but be sure to listen to your coaches and those around you, they've been through it and know how the process works.

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