For some time now, OF Kenton Unruh (Staley) has been a high-end prospect in the state's 2024 class. The 6-foot, 190-pound Kansas City native holds plenty of tools within a 6-foot, 190-pound frame (6.77 60, T88 mph OF, 99 mph max EV), but also provides a blend of polish, paricularly on the offensive end. Unruh represented Team Missouri at the PBR Future Games in 2022 and committed to Bradley in the months that followed.

We recently had the opportunity to talk with Unruh on his recruiting process, why he chose the Braves, his favorite baseball memory, toughest opponent, and several other topics. You'll find our full discourse below.

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?

Unruh: My expectations were that schools would come looking for me because that’s what it’s made out to be. That wasn’t really the case although I had some schools it was what I thought. I was looking for the right fit with a school. Feel is big for me and I wanted to be at a place where I felt wanted.

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

Unruh: No, I was fine going wherever.

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

Unruh: It really started to heat up the summer before my junior year. I had a good summer and was able to go to the Futures Games.

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

Unruh: I would say I like feeling wanted the most. I am the only outfielder they were recruiting in my class. The key factors for me were the fact they wanted me, it’s a very well respected school, big team environment, and manageable campus.

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

Unruh: The only other school I was really considering was Wichita State.

PBR: Who is the best player you have faced in your state? What about them makes for a tough opponent?

Unruh: RHP Tate McGuire (Liberty North, 2023; Arkansas signee). He was a dominant arm and is a very commanding presence on the mound.

PBR: 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?

Unruh: Freshman year for me. I always thought I was good but seeing myself stack up numbers wise and production wise to other college caliber players I really understood that I could make it.

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

Unruh: I would say just work work work. Don’t focus so much on swing mechanics and exit velo but focus on creating a good feel with your swing and to just to the little things right when practicing hitting and throwing.

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

Unruh: I would say my walk off in Staley’s first round of District play last season.

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

Unruh: I’ve got a good feeling. I think the Falcons can be dangerous.

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