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Layne Schnitz-Paxton, RHP, Napoleon HS, Class of 2016

PBR: Why did you choose Toledo?

Schnitz-Paxton: I feel it was the right fit for me and my family. I also clicked with the coaches right away and felt very comfortable with them. They gave me an amazing offer and I knew they wanted me to go there and be a part of their program.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Schnitz-Paxton: Miami (Ohio), Purdue, Cincinnati

PBR: Where did the Coach Mee first see you? How did your relationship develop with their coaching staff?

Schnitz-Paxton: I am not sure if it was Coach Mee or Coach Bradford that saw me first I believe it was at the top prospect games. The relationship developed the 1st time I visited the campus. (I went a total of 3 times) They made me feel like I was wanted in there program as soon as I walked in the door. They also proved they believed in me as a player (by the offer they gave me and conversations we had) all of the coaches also stayed in contact with me via phone calls and text from day one.  

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play your first year on campus?

Schnitz-Paxton: I hope they expect me to come in and get right on the mound (they said I would be in as a Freshman for sure but I am sure I will have to prove I can produce for them) I plan on coming in strong and making a name for myself early and helping the team any way I can.

PBR: The Toledo campus is very close to home. How much of a role did that play in your final decision?

Schnitz-Paxton: It played into my decision somewhat (but not entirely) I have two little brothers ages 7&8 and I want to be close enough to stay active in their lives as they grow up. I am also very close to my family and wanted them to be able to come see me as much as possible. They all played a role into getting me where I am today and I want them to be as much of a part of this experience as they can be.

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

Schnitz-Paxton: I feel like I am a very confident (yet coachable team player) and can go in as a freshman and have a large impact on their season and program.

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

Schnitz-Paxton: Napoleon River Bandits – most memorable moment was representing Ohio at regional’s with some of my best friends.

PBR: Now that you have your commitment out of the way, what are your goals both individually and for the team for the rest of your junior season?

Schnitz-Paxton: My goals are to work as hard as I can to better myself and I will do all I can to help my team. I believe if we can make it through our sectional tournament we can go all the way.

PBR: What were your stats for last spring?

Schnitz-Paxton:  44 and 2/3 innings pitched; 56 strikeouts; 4 wins, 2 complete games and a 3.92 era

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter that you have faced?

Schnitz-Paxton: I can’t really come up with one in particular but Deylen Miley is the one that comes to mind.