Inside the Recruitment: '16 RHP Josh Osterholt commits to UNOH

PBR: Why did you choose UNOH?

Osterholt: First off, I loved the campus and facilities (academic and athletic) they have at UNOH. Even on my first visit I could tell it was going to be the one. Also on my visits they preached the value of becoming a better person while also becoming a better baseball player.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Osterholt: Defiance and Bluffton were in my top 3. 

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

Osterholt: I attended a prospect camp my sophomore winter I believe. I have always made sure to keep in touch with the coaches whether it being visits or sending them my spring/summer updates. 

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

Osterholt: I've always believed in working as hard as humanely possible and then seeing where I'm at. So that's my plan. 

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

Osterholt: I have never been physically dominant so I've learned to use baseball IQ and grit to succeed. Whatever helps the team is what I will do.

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

Osterholt: I played for St. Henry Acme and this summer I will be playing for Piqua Legion. My most memorable experience would have to be when we beat Coldwater. It was an odd game, I think we were up like 5-0 in the 3rd or 4th without a hit. Their lineup from top to bottom battles. It's physically and mentally exhausting to pitch against them for sure. 

PBR: UNOH has a top notch baseball facility and is known for their maroon turf.  How much of a role did that play in the recruiting process?

Osterholt: I'm a pretty flashy guy so the uniforms and turf pretty much represent my personality. So it definitely gave it an added bonus. 

PBR: What were your stats for last spring?
Osterholt: Pitching-- 5 GS, 4-0 record, 30.2 innings 19 hits, 2.05 ERA, 15 Ks, .165 Batting average against.  Hitting-- .311 AVG, .417 OBP, 12 BB

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

Osterholt: I could have chosen a few different guys from Coldwater -- Kyle McKibben, Aaron Harlamert or Malave Bettinger. But, I always have had trouble with Malave.. It's just really hard to fool him and he has unreal power to the gaps.