Noah Skladan, LHP, Amherst Steele, Class of 2014

PBR: Why did you choose Mount Union? 

Skladan: When visiting the campus I felt very comfortable and I could really see myself there for 4 years. I feel that I can excel not just athletically but academically at Mount Union. 

PBR: What other schools were you considering? 

Skladan: Heidelberg, Baldwin Wallace, Ashland, and possibly walking on at a couple schools.

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

Skladan: They first saw me play at Mount Union during the summer. After talking with Coach Agona many times on the phone and on campus, he made me really want to be a part of their program. Coach Hesse, also, made me feel really comfortable not just about playing baseball there but in the classroom. He seems like a great coach and someone I'd enjoy playing for. 

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

Skladan: With 5 senior arms this year and only one left hander, the coaches are expecting me to immediately provide bullpen help and compete for a lot of innings. 

PBR: What summer team do you play on and how has travel baseball helped your development as a player? 

Skladan: I played for Premier Baseball Academy last summer and now I'm on the Lorain County Jr. Ironmen 18u. Travel Ball has helped me develop confidence in throwing my off speed and made me a better pitcher mentally.  

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

Skladan: My dad has always been there since little league pushing me to become a better player everyday. I've had some great coaches throughout the years, too. They have given me great advice and helped me develop as a pitcher. 

PBR: What were your stats for this spring season at Amherst Steele? 

Skladan: 3-1 record, 1.29 ERA, 31.2 innings, 19 hits, 21 strikeouts, 9 walks. 

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

Skladan: Kyle Kuhar - Avon Lake HS