Sikeston HS 3B Drew Harper (right) burst onto the scene as a sophomore in 2011, after missing most of his freshman year with a broken leg. Harper came back with a vengeance last season, helping lead Sikeston HS to a 14-7 record.

At Prep Baseball Report Showcases, Harper consistently impressed with sound fielding mechanics, a strong accurate arm, and a quick line drive producing swing. Harper has continually climbed the Class of 2013 rankings with standout performances.  Recently at the Midwest Futures Games for the top players in the Midwest, Harper displayed versatility in the infield with stellar play at second base, shortstop, and third base; while having some of the best at bats of the weekend.

We recently caught up with Harper:

PBR: Now that you are well into your junior year, have you received interest from colleges, and what colleges are you interested in?

Harper: Yes, I have received emails and letters from colleges. I am interested in Mizzou, Missouri State, Western Kentucky, Wake Forest, Bradley University, University of Evansville, and Central Missouri.

PBR: What are you doing now in preparation for both recruiting and the high school season?  

Harper: I have been working out 5 days per week to gain strength and agility. I have also been hitting 6 days per week and doing defensive drills a minimum of 3 days per week.

PBR: You are one of the top ranked players in the Class of 2013 (No. 7), do you feel that gives you an advantage in recruiting or puts more pressure on you to perform up to that ranking?

Harper: I think it definitely doesn’t hurt to get your name out there, but at the end of the day you still have to perform. That is why I am working on my game as much as possible to perform up to that ranking.

PBR: Recently you participated in the PBR Midwest Futures Games, what did you take away from that experience?

Harper: It was a really good experience it not only showed off my talents in front of some of the top universities in the country.  It also gave me the chance to see how I compared to other top players in the Midwest. I really enjoyed talking to the players and picking things up from them that will help my game in the future.

PBR: You have played with and against some top talent in the Midwest, how do you feel that has prepared you going into your junior year?

Harper: Playing with and against the best players in the Midwest makes you a better player, because you have to play at a higher level. It also shows you that your game can always improve.

PBR: Do you feel playing in the Southeast Missouri area prepares a player to be ready for college?

Harper: I think it is an advantage, because there are a number of really good players in our area. I believe that while the schools are smaller there are still a number of quality players that will play college baseball in the future.

PBR: When you’re not competing in the spring, are there certain things you do to stay in the best physical shape you can?  

Harper: I don’t only workout during the off season, but I do a light workout during the season. I hit every day and do a great deal of throwing.

PBR: As you go into your junior year, are there goals you have set out to accomplish?

Harper: I want to help lead my team to a district/state title. To do this I have to improve my overall game and take more of a leadership role this year both on the field and in the dugout.

PBR: Blake DeWitt of the Chicago Cubs, a graduate of the high school you attend, Sikeston HS, has set the bar for players in Southeast Missouri. How and what have you learned from the success he has had?

Harper: When Blake was at SHS I shagged balls for him. I have seen the hard work, and long hours that he has put in to be where he is at today.