Ryan Rogers, RHP/3B, Sparta HS, 2014

PBR: Why did you choose Grand Rapids C.C.? 

Rogers: I chose Grand Rapids C.C. because I felt like I need two years to develop into a better pitcher in hopes of a Division I scholarship and I really liked the coaches and how successful they have been at developing ballplayers that succeed at the next level. 

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

Rogers: My dad and Mike Paul have had the biggest impact on me as a baseball player. My dad has put in countless hours with me. Mike Paul has been my trainer at Elite the past three years and has increased my velocity from 77 mph up to 85-87 mph and has helped me with the recruiting process.

PBR: What are your expectations for your high school team this year?

Rogers: My expectations for my high school team (Sparta) is to hopefully win the O.K. Blue Conference and make a run in the playoffs. We lost five seniors, including Ben Sheckler who is now pitching at Cornerstone, but we will still have a very experienced group of seniors. 

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what is your most memorable moment?

Rogers: I play for the West Michigan Elite 18U Gold team and my most memorable moment from last year was playing against a high level 18U Illinois Sparks travel team. I pitched in relief against a team which had nine Division I starters. I pitched two innings, only giving up one hit and no runs. 

PBR: What were your stats last year? 

Rogers: My GPA is a 3.65 and my ACT score is 22. Last year I went 4-2 with 38 IP, 64 K, 5 BB, and a 1.24 ERA.  

PBR: Who is the best player you have played against and why? 

Rogers: Kory Young from Rockford is the best player I have played against because he is one of the best middle infielders defensively I have seen, can hit for power and average, uses the whole field, can run, and can even pitch.