By TJ Hunt
Director of Scouting, New Jersey

 As we continue to shape-the-state here in New Jersey, several different unique features will be available on our website. Player Spotlights, Progress Reports, Scouting Blogs, Rankings and Top-Performer Lists, and so much more. Without the players we have nothing, so let’s take this a bit more personal - Get To Know: Our new article feature that hones in on what our Garden State players are up to, what makes them tick, and some real-candid inside access...  

Name: Davis Schneider
High School: Eastern Regional
Position: 3B
State Rank: 9
Commitment: Rutgers

PBR: Let's start with your baseball commitment to Rutgers. Tell us about the decision-making process? How excited are you to play in the Big Ten?  

Schneider: The coaching staff was the main reason why I chose Rutgers. The coaching staff there was very positive from the very first time I was in contact with them. When I visited the campus, the whole atmosphere was a good fit for me. When they made me an offer, I talked about it with my parents and accepted. Rutgers is a Big Ten program and provides guaranteed four year scholarships which is really beneficial for student athletes. Living in New Jersey and being able to afford the education expenses will pay off in the
future. The Big Ten is loaded with talent and many guys I have played with and against across the country are going to Big Ten schools. I will get to play against my friends and play with some friends at Rutgers. It's going to be fun.

PBR: Baseball has an unbelievable way of positively shaping young men on and off the field. Tell us one life-lesson you have picked up over the years playing the game, and how that life-lesson may impact you later in life?  

Schneider:  Baseball has taught me that there are no guarantees in life. If you want to
accomplish your dream, you have to work very hard to get that chance to have it come true. This will help me when I have to make tough decisions in the future and I will be a better person because of baseball.

PBR:  If you were a baseball scout and just watched yourself play, what would that scouting report look like?  

Schneider:  If I were a baseball scout and watched myself play, the scouting report would say "Aggressive hitter. Looks for his pitch. Smooth defender with quick
hands. Great baseball IQ."

PBR: We are knee-deep into the off-season schedule. Tell us about your training and spring preparation.  

Schneider:  In the winter, I hit five times a week and train everyday. I go to the gym daily and my school has workouts every other day. I try to eat right and work on anything baseball related everyday. Each day is a chance to get better.

PBR: If you could only pick one, who would be your biggest baseball influence and why?   

Schneider: My biggest baseball influence is obviously my dad. He is the reason I am the player I am today. He pushes me to do my best and cares about my future. He knows what's best for me and tries to help me get better every chance he can. 

PBR: Name three goals for the upcoming 2017 season.

Schneider: 
1. Win a second Diamond Classic Championship
2. Win a State Championship
3. Make 1st Team All-State 

PBR: Who is the best player you have played against in your high school career so far?

Schneider: The best player I have played against is without a doubt (2016 LHP) Jason Groome (Barnegat HS, NJ - First Rounder to the Red Sox in '16) in summer ball. Most mature pitcher for his age I have ever seen.

PBR: Do you have any pregame superstitions? 

Schneider: My pregame superstition is who I choose as my throwing partner. I always throw with my teammate, Frank Pallante.

PBR: What would be your best walkout song?

Schneider: The best walk up song would definitely be "Can't Stop" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers.