By Chris Fuller

With his recent commitment to Louisville, right-handed pitcher Riley Thompson became the first 2015 player in Kentucky to give a verbal commitment.  Thompson, currently ranked number 2 in the PBR overall rankings (all states combined), recently chatted with PBR about his decision.

Riley Thompson, RHP, Christian Academy of Louisville, Class of 2015

PBR: Why did you choose Louisville?

Thompson: I chose Louisville because I like the coaches and was impressed with the program, the facilities, and everyone involved with U of L Baseball.  Coach McDonnell, Coach Lemonis, Coach Williams, Coach Cheesebrough have all made me feel so comfortable.

PBR: With your commitment coming so early, were you considering any others    schools?

Thompson: No, I wasn’t.

PBR: How does it feel to be finished with the recruiting process early in your sophomore year?

Thompson: It is a good feeling knowing where I am going to go and not having to worry.

PBR: Where did the coaching staff first see you play?  

Thompson: I went to a U of L Baseball camp in the eighth grade.  The coaches came to watch some games my freshman year.

PBR: What would you consider your biggest strength as a player? 

Thompson: My arm, but I also love to hit and play first base.

PBR: To this point, who has had the biggest impact on your baseball career?

Thompson: My father, Dennis Thompson, Chris Burke, and Matt Baldwin.  I also have a great high school coach, Tim Brown, who wants to bring out the best in me.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer? 

Thompson: I play for the IXL Ironmen Baseball Club, managed by Mark Peters and coached by Richie Ware.

PBR: What is your most memorable baseball moment?

Thompson: Pitching as an eighth grader at Applebee’s stadium in Lexington in the All A State Classic.  I threw a combined no-hitter in that game.

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter you have faced in the state of Kentucky?  

Thompson: Probably Michael Davis of Eastern High School in Louisville.

PBR: What are your goals for your sophomore season at Christian Academy of Louisville?

Thompson: I would like to lower my era, have some home runs, pitch a no-hitter and lead my team to a State championship.