Jacob Lerch, OF, Class of 2014, Napoleon HS

PBR: Why did you choose Bluffton?

Lerch: I chose Bluffton, because I felt most comfortable spending the next four years of my life there. I was drawn by the academic side of the school and playing baseball there is a bonus.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Lerch: I was deciding between Bluffton and Heidelberg

PBR:  Where did the coaches first see you compete and how did your relationship develop with the rest of the coaching staff?

Lerch: I went down to Bluffton the fall of my junior year to a fall prospect camp to gain more experience. Coach Grandey is a great coach who is really interested in the lives of his players. He is really excited about the game of baseball and so am I.

PBR: What role does the coaching staff expect you to play during your first year on campus?

Lerch: Nothing has been promised to me, but I'm looking forward to competing next year.

PBR: Bluffton is very close to home.  How much did distance play a role in your decision?

Lerch: I wanted to be far enough away from home that I was on my own, but close enough where I could come back home occasionally and Bluffton fit those needs perfectly.

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

Lerch: My parents have made the biggest impact on me as a player, because they are always supporting my goals and encouraging me to succeed.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?

Lerch: I am still looking for a team to play for this summer. A few years back our Acme team made it to the State Acme tournament and it was great experience for us as we moved forward.

PBR: What were your stats last season for Napoleon?

Lerch: I hit .254 with 8 rbis and 5 stolen bases

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

Lerch: Andy Fisher from Bowling Green.