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Q&A with Ohio University commit Rudy Rott

December 17, 2013

By Steve Nielsen
Scouting Director – Wisconsin/Illinois

Catcher Rudy Rott (LaCrosse Aquinas, 2015) was the latest 2015 in Wisconsin to make his college commitment. After an excellent performance at the Midwest Future Games, Rott wowed the Ohio University staff with his bat and made his verbal commitment to the Bobcats.

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

Rott: I thought the recruiting process was going to be a pretty simple process in the beginning. As it began to pick up, I realized that I had to do a lot more work than I originally thought. However, when I really thought about how fortunate I was to be in the situation, it helped me keep a positive attitude and not get overwhelmed.

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

Rott: I was looking for a program that was going to give me an opportunity to play right away. I also wanted a group of coaches that I could clearly see their vision for where the program is headed.

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

Rott: No, I feel comfortable away from home, so ultimately I just wanted to have the best opportunity to play at the highest level possible.

PRB: 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? 

Rott: After attending the Midwest Future Games, the whole process really heated up. After that is when I started talking to the most schools and had them showing interest in me.

PBR: Where did Ohio University first see you? How did your relationship develop with them? 

Rott: Ohio University first saw me at the Midwest Future Games. Ever since then, I have been in constant contact with them through email and on the phone.

PBR: What do you like most about Ohio University and what were the key factors in making your decision? 

Rott: I love the energy and passion the coaches bring to their job which was one of the key factors. I wanted to find a place I was comfortable, and a place where I liked the coaches, and could clearly see their goals for the future.

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

Rott: Western Michigan, Western Kentucky, Valparaiso, and Duke.

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

Rott: Jeren Kendall is the best player I have faced in Wisconsin. He is in my conference for high school baseball, so I have to face him two times a year. He is a great all-around player that can change the game with his speed.

PBR: What is your best attribute as a baseball player and how does that transfer onto the field for your team? 

Rott: My best attribute is my ability to hit in any situation. I feel comfortable at the plate no matter what the situation is. This transfers onto the field to help my team when I am at the plate late in the game with runners in scoring position. I am able to stay confident and focus to give my team a chance to win.

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

Rott: No matter what other people say, always be confident in yourself. Ultimately, it is only up to you. You can be as good as you want, as long as you are willing to do the hard work.

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

Rott: We are going to be a very young team with very little varsity experience, but with the great coaches we have, we always have a chance to have a great season. Every year it is our goal to make a run in the playoffs, and make it to state.

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