When thinking of power bats in the state of Illinois, one of the first that comes to mind is 1B Cade Duffin (Oswego, 2023; Illinois-Springfield commit). Listed at a physical 6-foot-3, 240-pounds, Duffin has all sorts of power in his right-handed bat; reaching up to an eye-popping 108 mph in the past in front of our scouting staff. This past summer, Duffin showed a refined approach at the plate, leading to more contact and overall success, which when paired with his power was a nightmare for opposing teams. The slugger will surely look to keep his hot streak going into the spring season and help lead Oswego to another playoff run. 

We recently had the opportunity to talk with the Illinois-Springfield commit about his recruitment process, as well as some other interesting topics along the way. 

Our Q&A

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Duffin: I didn't have any expectations when I was going through the recruiting process. When I was looking at college programs, I was looking for a good young coaching staff that I could connect with.

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

D: Distance from home did not play a factor in my recruiting process. I wanted to be a part of a winning program and I wanted to be at a school that felt like home for me.

P: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Where did the school you committed to first see you play?

D: The recruiting process started to heat up for me during the summer of my junior year. UIS first reached out to me my sophomore year in high school and stuck with me ever since.

P: What do you like most about the program you chose, and what were the key factors in making your decision?

D: The thing I liked the most about UIS was the winning culture, it is obvious that their goal is to make a college world series every year.

P: Who is the best player you have faced in your state? What about them makes for a tough opponent?

D: The best player I have ever played against would have to be Colin Barczi. Playing against him is a good time; the way he plays the game with passion and the way he carries himself is fun to watch.

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

D: Never look back, always look forward. Baseball is a mental game, do not let one bad day get to you.

P: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?

D: Our crosstown game vs Oswego East.

P: Preview your high school team's season for us. How do you feel your team will be?

D: Oswego High School is going to make another playoff run as an underdog.

P: Who is the next talented young player to keep an eye on out of your high school or travel program?

D: Keegan Walters out of Morris. 

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