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Jesse Heikkinen, LHP, Holt HS, Class of 2017

PBR: Why did you choose Michigan State?

Heikkinen: Both my parents went to school at Michigan State and I've grown up a Spartan. I live very close to campus and my dream since elementary school has always been to play baseball for MSU. Also I felt like I clicked with the coaching staff. I like their coaching style and I also really like their new pitching coach Skylar Meade. 

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Heikkinen: University of Michigan showed some interest in me but once Michigan State made me an offer, I knew that's where I would end up.  I took a couple months to think about whether any school could make me an offer that would change my mind but I couldn't come up with one.

PBR: Where did the coaching staff first see you?

Heikkinen: As far as I know, the first time the coaches saw me pitch was at a Colorado Rockies tryout in Grand Rapids.

PBR: What team do you play for in the summer and what is your most memorable moment?

Heikkinen: Last year, I played for Grand Slam Baseball Academy's first year offering a U17 program.  I plan to play with them again this year, but it's likely we will have a new name. My most memorable moment would have to be pitching the first 6 innings against the Diamonds to win the Battle of the Capital right here in Lansing.

PBR: You are only a sophomore, how excited are you to have your commitment out of the way and are you finished with the recruiting process?

Heikkinen: I am very excited. With my early commitment I can relax a bit and enjoy the rest of high school ball.

PBR:  What team do you play for in the summer?

 Heikkinen: Grand Slam Baseball Academy.

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process?

Heikkinen: I didn't really have any expectations because I had never talked to anyone about how it goes. I was definitely not ready for the perks of the visits. Being on the sideline at the football games was an awesome experience.

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter that you have faced?

Heikkinen: I pitched against the Diamonds in 2 different tournaments this past summer and they had this big lefty kid that I just couldn't get out. I don't know his name, but he could hit anything I threw at him. He probably had 6 hits out of his 8 at bats. Definitely the best hitter I've ever faced and I look forward to pitching to him again sometime.