Tad Sobieszczanki, OF, Toledo St. Francis

PBR: Why did you choose Hillsdale?
Sobieszczanski: I chose Hillsdale because I wanted to go somewhere not too far from home with good academics and the opportunity to play baseball at a high level.  When I went on a visit I loved the campus and the coaching staff.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?
Sobieszczanski: Ashland, Bellarmine, Siena Heights, and Ohio Wesleyan

PBR:  Where did the coaching staff first see you compete?                                          Sobieszczanski: Well since I was not able to attend their fall prospect camp, they asked that if I could make it on campus for a visit.  I visited in the fall and had the chance to tour campus and workout in front of the whole coaching staff.

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play during your first year on campus?
Sobieszczanski: The coaching staff at Hillsdale expects me to come in and compete during fall ball for a spot in the outfield.

PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that will help Hillsdale?
Sobieszczanski: My biggest strength has always been at the plate.  I feel I’ll have a good chance to showcase my skills during fall ball and hopefully earn a spot in the lineup at Hillsdale in the spring.  

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?
Sobieszczanski: My father by far has had the biggest impact on my baseball career.  He taught me all aspects of the game from the time I was born.  When I first started getting serious he was my first coach; this was special to me because it was easy to go to him for advice about my game and still is today.  I’m so thankful to be able to play the next four years close to home!

PBR:  How much of relief is it to have made your college decision prior to your senior season? Sobieszczanski: It’s such a relief to know where I will be going to school next year already; now I can just focus on this season and hopefully leading my teammates to a championship.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?
Sobieszczanski: The past summer I played for the Toledo Legion Post 335 and plan on playing for them again this year.  My best experience playing summer ball has to be playing down in Myrtle Beach at the Cal Ripken Experience.  The fields down there are amazing and nothing beats the perfect Myrtle Beach baseball weather!

PBR: What were your stats last season for Toledo St. Francis?
Sobieszczanski: .330 AVG, .400 OBP, 23 runs, and 10 walks.

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher you have faced in Ohio?
Sobieszczanski: The toughest pitcher I have faced in Ohio would have to be Jordan Grosjean from Clay High School.  Big righty, with power and good off-speed stuff.