By Phil Wade
Executive Director PBR Indiana


Penn High School RHP Skylar Szynski committed to Indiana University and Head Coach Chris Lemonis last week.  Szynski became the second player from this year's Future Games Team Indiana to commit to the Hoosiers (lefty Andrew Saalfrank committed a couple of days prior). 

Szynski, a 6-foot-2, 195 pound righty, came out on fire in his first inning of work at the Future Games earlier this month.  He consistently sat 90-91 with his fastball before bumping it up to 92.  Szynski, ranked No. 6 in the 2016 class, shows easy effort with an electric arm.  

PBR: Ultimately, why did you choose I.U.?

Szynski: Coaches along with the academic staff were very welcoming and made me feel very comfortable during my visit.  The awesome campus and top notch facilities were second to none, and it just felt right. After walking the campus and meeting everyone, I told my family it was a no brainer, and I could see myself here.   

PBR: When did you take your first visit down to Bloomington?

Szynski: My parents and I visited on Wednesday August 13th 2014, and later that day after driving home, I verbally committed. 

PBR: Where did IU first see you compete?

Szynski: IU first saw me pitch at the University of Louisville during a summer ball tournament the summer of my sophomore year. 

PBR: What do the coaches expect from you when you first arrive on campus?

Szynski: For me, the expectations are high to continue to work hard, develop my potential and earn my spot between the white lines.  Becoming part of the family and being accountable while enjoying playing the game to the best of my ability. 

PBR: Were there any other schools you were considering?

Szynski: Yes, I had considered Western Michigan, Indiana State, Louisville, Ohio State, Florida, and Ole Miss.  So many rich traditions and great programs, but ultimately IU was the best fit for me. 

PBR: You played for Team Indiana at this year's Future Games, describe your experience participating in that event.

Szynski: Being chosen to play with Team Indiana was a great honor and an awesome experience.  Meeting so many talented guys from Indiana while facing the best players in other states was great.  Having the opportunity to been seen by so many scouts all in one place was an unforgettable experience. 

PBR: Overall, how has PBR impacted your recruiting process (if at all)?

Szynski: PBR has provided me numerous opportunities for exposure that have helped my recruiting process with colleges and pro scouts, which is invaluable for my future. 

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter you've faced within the state of Indiana?

Szynski: Joey Lang from Clay High School was the toughest hitter I faced this year. 

PBR: Now that you've committed, what are your goals going forward as a HS player?

Szynski: I have been looking forward to winning a State Championship, so I will keep on improving my strength & conditioning, while honing skills, perfecting my pitching and helping lead my team toward achieving that goal.   

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

Szynski: I owe everything to my parents for supporting me and helping me become the player I am today. Their time and dedication mean the world to me. 

PBR: What were your stats last spring at Penn?

Last spring my record was 7-2 with a 1.64 ERA and 67 K’s in 51 innings pitched.  Opponents' batting average against me was .135, as I only gave up 24 hits.  My batting average was .350 and I had 1 home run.