Jared Carrier
Director of Scouting, NY

AROUND THE CAGE

This week we strike up a conversation with recently committed 2017 Catcher Jake Zurat of Williamsville North HS.   Zurat is ranked No. 67 overall in our latest 2017 Rankings. The full bodied backstop is a PBR-NY veteran. A superb defender who can drive the gaps; Zurat will be heading to NCAA D1 Buffalo next fall.

LEADING OFF

PBR: What’s the biggest part of your game that has improved over the last year?
ZURAT: My hitting has been the part that has improved the most in my game this past year.

PBR: What is an area you would like to become more consistent with?
ZURAT: I would like to be more consistent with my throws to second when I catch.

PBR: What was the biggest thing you’ve been able to take away from the PBR experience?
ZURAT: The biggest thing I have taken away from the PBR experience is just have fun and enjoy your time at the showcases and tournaments.

MIDDLE INNINGS

PBR: Name the best position player you’ve witnessed over your high school years and why.
ZURAT: The best high school player I have witnessed over my years has to be Leugim Castillo (2017 OF/Oklahoma Commit) because he is just a special player and is fun to play against.

PBR: Toughest pitcher that you’ve faced and why?
ZURAT: Dan Dallas (San Diego Padres/7th round pick in 2016) because of his ability to blow a fast ball by you and also make you look like a fool with his curveball.

PBR:Current or former pro player that you would like your game to emulate?
ZURAT: Buster Posey.

CLOSING IT OUT

PBR: Give us 3 goals for this upcoming 2017 season.
ZURAT: 1. Increase my arm strength. 2. Improve my blocking ability. 3. Being able to generate more power at the plate.

PBR: What were the deciding factors on choosing Buffalo?
ZURAT: The deciding factors were the fact that I could play the game I love in pretty much my backyard. Also, the amazing campus, coaching staff, and facilities UB has to offer.

PBR: How are you hoping to contribute during your freshman at Buffalo?
ZURAT: I'm hoping to contribute to the team in whatever way they need me. I will put in 110% effort in everything I do.

EXTRA INNINGS

PBR: Ok, let’s finish with some fun...Favorite pre-game snack or meal?"
ZURAT: My favorite pregame snack would have to be Gatorade Gummies.

PBR:Most embarrassing moment on a baseball field?
ZURAT: Most embarrassing moment on the baseball field would have to be running off the field with 2 outs.

PBR:Superstitions?
ZURAT: I like the put my right batting glove on before my left and always take exactly 5 practice swings.

PBR: Nickname? The story behind it?
ZURAT: Z or Big Z. People just started calling me it.

PBR: Choose your eternal walk up song (Edited Versions of course).
ZURAT: Can't Tell Me Nothing (Kanye West)