Prep Baseball Report

Q&A With St. Louis Commit Keith Kutzler



By Matt Huck
Area Scout

Every Friday National Scouting Supervisor Nathan Rode provides a roundup of insider recruiting information and commitments throughout the PBR coverage area: The Buzz. Click Here to take a look at this week’s National Buzz. With that in mind, we recently talked with St. Louis University baseball commit Keith Kutzler.

Kutzler is currently ranked No. 16 in the Wisconsin Class of 2016. Here is scouting report on Kutzler from this past July’s PBR Badger State Battle, where he competed with GRB.

Keith Kutzler7/12/15 - 6-foot-4, 195-pound, right-handed pitcher with a projectable frame. Currently ranked No. 16 in the Wisconsin Class of 2016. No. 372 in PBR Overall Ranks. On the mound works from a high ¾ arm angle with a quick arm action. Tall and fall delivery, falls off to first base side. Showed explosiveness in his delivery. Fastball sat 85-86 topping out at 88 mph. Maintained velocity thru outing. Curveball showed 1-5 shape at 71-74 mph with late action. Changeup sat 69-70 mph with downer action, while maintaining fastball arm speed. Currently uncommitted. 

 

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? Was it as expected? Easy/Difficult?

Kutzler: The recruiting process turned out to be more difficult than I expected. I knew it would be difficult going into it, but it was especially hard at the end. There are many great schools with a lot to offer both academically and athletically. 

PBR: What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Kutzler: I was looking for a good coaching staff that I felt comfortable with and that develops players to their maximum potential. I also wanted a program that would give me a chance to contribute early on; as well as one with a winning tradition. 

PBR: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?

Kutzler: Location wasn't a major factor in my decision, but it definitely helped.  I wanted a school south of Wisconsin for better baseball weather, and also close enough that my family could attend games.

PBR: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Was there a particular game or event that you feel turned the corner for you?

Kutzler: The recruiting process started last summer at the Future Games and continued through the fall. I feel the Perfect Game WWBA in Florida was also a big factor for me. Pitching against some of the best competition in the country was beneficial as many college coaches were in attendance. 

PBR: Where did the college you chose first see you? How did your relationship develop with them?

Kutzler: Saint Louis University first saw me at the Future Games in Indiana. They also saw me this summer in Chicago at the Top Prospect Showcase. That's when the communication became more frequent and a relationship started to grow. 

PBR: What do you like most about the college you committed to and what were the key factors in making your decision?

Kutzler: I was looking for a mid-size school in a larger city where I could feel at home. I wanted a campus that was easy to get around and where the baseball field was part of campus. Strong academics and support for student athletes was also important to me. 

PBR: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?

Kutzler: The other schools I was considering were SIUE, Morehead State, Bradley, and Western Illinois. 

PBR: Who is the best player you have faced in your state, and why?

Kutzler: I would have to go with Gavin Lux. I have faced him regularly throughout the spring since his school is in my conference. He has natural athleticism, great plate coverage, and few holes in his swing, making him a tough out. 

PBR: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?

Kutzler: Being a collegiate baseball player has been a goal of mine since I was a young kid. Hard work in the off season by getting in the weight room, and keeping my arm healthy has made an impact on my game. My dad has been a huge impact since I was young teaching me proper mechanics and how to play the game the right way. 

PBR: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?

Kutzler: Baseball is a game of failure, so it's important to learn how to deal with adversity. Never get too high or too low on yourself. Stay focused, prepare mentally and physically, and always play hard because you never know who is watching. 

PBR: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?

Kutzler: Being able to contribute to my high school varsity team as a freshman. I was also able to play on the same team as my brother, who was a senior, for the first time. I got my first varsity shut out that year. I gave up three hits for an all around team win that boosted us into the playoffs. 

PBR: Preview your high school season for us. How do you feel your team will be? What are your expectations and goals?

Kutzler: Tremper is looking for one of the best years we've had in a long time. We are junior and senior heavy, with a lot of experience coming off a tough ending to last season. Almost all of our pitchers are returning next year, along with arguably one of the best infields in the state. With young talent emerging to help out our experienced lineup, Tremper baseball is looking to make a remarkable impact on the season and into the playoffs next year.

PBR: Where do you play in the summer? And what has been your most memorable experience with them?

Kutzler: I play for the GRB Rays in the summer. This past summer was my second season in the program, and I'm happy to have found a home there when I did. Greg and Max have made an unanimous impact on my baseball career, from my ability to how I carry myself on and off the field. Them, along with my teammates who quickly became like another family, made it easy and enjoyable to go out and play everyday. My most memorable experience with the Rays would have to be the van rides for the countless entertaining and unforgettable moments.

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