Riley Mahan, SS, Moeller HS, Class of 2014

PBR: Why did you choose Kentucky?

Mahan: I chose Kentucky because I felt very comfortable with everything about Kentucky.  I developed a great relationship with the coaching staff which was key and I wanted a chance to play in the SEC.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Mahan:  Cincinnati, Ohio State, Michigan, Clemson, Wake Forest, Louisville, Michigan State were the schools that I was talking to the most.

PBR:  Where did Kentucky first see you compete?

Mahan: The first time was at a PBR event and then they got a chance to come to many games over the summer.

PBR: You are only a Junior, how important was it to make you college decision so early?  Are you finished with the recruiting process?

Mahan: It was important as it will take some of the pressure off and let me concentrate on my final two years at Moeller.  Yes, I should be finished.

PBR: The SEC is a major baseball conference.  How much of a factor was playing in the SEC in your decision?

Mahan: The SEC is an unbelievable baseball conference with incredible venues and players.  I would say it was a big factor in my decision as I wanted to be a part of something special and compete against the best.

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

Mahan:  I am not sure how to answer, I always try to do what is needed to give my team the best chance to win.  Maybe one of my best strengths that will help me at UK is how hard I will be working before I get there and after I arrive there.   

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

Mahan:  My Dad and my summer coaches Joe Harrmann and Buster Keeton.  They have taught me the game and helped me achieve the success that I have had so far.

PBR: How does it feel to be a part of the Moeller baseball tradition?

Mahan:  It is an unbelievable feeling. There are so many great players who have played at Moeller that it gives you a cool feeling to wear the jersey with Moeller on the front.     

PBR:  Last spring Moeller won the Division 1 State title.  How much pressure do you feel to repeat the Championship season?

Mahan:  There is not any additional pressure to win the title as winning is something that is expected at Moeller.  I think there will be pressure on the other teams to try and take it from us as the returning players know how hard we have to work to achieve that big of an accomplishment.  We will work hard and be ready next spring – should be a great challenge for our team.

PBR:  What were you stats last spring for Moeller?

Mahan:  I think I hit like .315 with 10 doubles and 34 RBI

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

Mahan:  There are many good pitchers in the state.  Brian Burkhart was not much fun to face in practice.  A couple very tough pitchers in the 2014 class to face are Zach Shannon and Chris Martin