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Q&A with 2015 Minnesota-Duluth Commit: Jaylen Hakes

October 21, 2014


Minnesota We Got it Covered

Jaylen Hakes, 1B, St. Michael- Albertville, Class of 2015

PBR:  Why did you choose University of Minnesota- Duluth?
HAKES: I chose UMD because on my visit up there I really enjoyed the campus. I loved the town of Duluth and the coaches really made me feel welcome when I was up there.

PBR:  What other schools were you considering?
HAKES: The other schools I was considering were UND, Luther college, and the University of Nebraska Omaha.

PBR:  Where did they first see you? How did your relationship develop with the coaching staff?
HAKES: Coach Rients of Duluth first saw me up in a legion baseball tournament in Grand Rapids. My relationship with Coach Rients started with a phone call he gave me this summer. Then at the prospect camp up there we got to meet in person, and we keep in contact with phone calls, e-mails, and texts about once a month.

PBR: What role do you expect to play your first year on campus?
HAKES: I expect to work hard, learn a lot, and play a contributing role on the team my first year up there.

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?
HAKES: My dad had the biggest impact on me. He would always help me with my performance and was the best coach I've had.

PBR: What have you worked on/improved since last year?
HAKES: I've been working on my strength, speed, and flexibility over the past year, as well as velocity and my hitting technique.

PBR: Who is the toughest player that you have faced in Minnesota?
HAKES: Growing up in St. Michael and playing AAA baseball throughout my childhood I've faced a lot of Minnesota's best and I can't name just one person. I've also played amateur ball the past couple summers and have faced some great college players.

PBR:  What are your thoughts on the recruiting process? Any advice for future players in your position.
HAKES: My thoughts are that you really have to do something great to be recognized. My only advice to younger players is that you should never stop working hard. There is always something to improve on.

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