Commitment Q&A: Baylor Roberts

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?

Roberts: During my process I was looking for a college who wanted me for my strengths. I expected to commit to a school where my skill-set fit best. 

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

Roberts: Absolutely, being close to home is a huge factor for me. Knowing my family will be able to make it to the majority of my games is a great feeling to have. 

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

Roberts: My recruitment process really began to ramp up this summer. UAB followed me all summer but really got to see my play at the Future Games. Following the Games I attended UAB’s prospect camp. There I received an offer. 

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

Roberts: What sold me on UAB was their great coaching staff. They are very goal oriented and have a great plan for the future of the school.  Coach Dunn and Coach Moss were very welcoming and honest while recruiting me. From first talking to them I knew they were trustworthy people who believed in me as a player.  

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

Roberts: UAB was the first to offer me. I had interest in many other schools including MS State, South Alabama, Arkansas State, and Southern MS.

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

Roberts: I’ve faced a lot of tough pitchers but one that really stuck out for me was Jack Ketchum. His slider is unreal and will definitely play at the next level while at Alabama. He made me look silly 2 straight at bats except for a 0-2 fastball he left up. 

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?

Roberts: After attending the PBR Junior Future Games in 2021, the dream of playing at the D1 level became very serious to me. Watching the older guys play in front of hundreds of scouts was a really cool sight. Knowing a large majority of them growing up, whether be playing against or watching, allowed me to understand how attainable this goal was. It pushed me to do anything possible to be in their position one day. 

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

Roberts: The advice I would give to young baseball players is to always be confident in yourself. Never let outsides change the way you think about yourself or your goal. Understand that God has a great plan for you in life. Stay close to him. Self confidence is so important in baseball. 

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

Roberts: My most memorable baseball moment has to be dog-piling on my home field after winning North Half sophomore year. To experience that success in front of our home fans and supporters is something I will never forget. 

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

Roberts: This year Saltillo will have talent reloading just like it has in the past. With returning Wilson Rodriguez leading the pitching staff. And Smythe McCoy, Jack Adams, and I returning as starters. I think the main struggle this year for us will be inexperience. Sophomore Jordan Evers is hopeful to make a huge jump this year. Running the fastball up to 90, really looking for Jordan to be the game 2 guy throughout the season. Looking forward to see guys step up and fill roles.