Prep Baseball Report

Inside the Recruitment: '16 C Jacob Smith commits to Baldwin Wallace



Jacob Smith, C, Medina HS, Class of 2016

PBR: Why did you choose Baldwin Wallace?

Smith: I chose Baldwin Wallace because I felt I could succeed as a player but most importantly as a student at their institution.
PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Smith: Walsh, Slippery Rock

PBR: What was the relationship you had with the Coach Harrison and the rest of the coaching staff in the recruitment process?

Smith: Coach Harrison has been very friendly and interested in me along with Coach DeAngelis. They have both been open to talk to and have made the process the most comfortable of any university I have spoken to.

PBR:  Where did Baldwin Wallace first see you compete?

Smith: They saw my recruiting video and were interested in my ability.

PBR: Coach Harrison has been able to turnaround every program that he has coached and just recently lead BW to the Division III College World Series.  How does it feel to be part of such a program on the rise?

Smith: I am more than excited to begin our journey back to the College World Series and towards a National Championship. I know I will have to work hard and prove myself as a freshman but that is something I’m willing to dedicate myself to.

PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that you will help as a Yellow Jacket?

Smith: My biggest strength as a player is my knowledge of the game. I feel that this will help me by my ability to control the game from behind the plate and making sure everyone is in the best position for success.

PBR: What team do you play for in the summer and what was the most memorable experience from this summer?

Smith: I played for The Express. The most memorable experience was being able to play alongside my cousins and being an off the grid team who ended up with every player going on to play college baseball.

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?

Smith: Coach Dan Sherman has had the biggest impact on me as a baseball player. In the short year that I was able to be coached by him, I learned more than I have in my entire life, and that transcends baseball. I will never forget the impact he had on me and my team. Although tragedy struck and he is no longer with us, I will always carry a part of him with me through my career.

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher that you have faced in Ohio?

Smith: Chris Machamer