Commitment Q&A with Kansas Signee Blake O'Brien
January 23, 2024
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?
O'Brien: I knew I wanted to take my time when looking for a school. I was looking for a combination of a great program and a university with a national presence.
PBR: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?
O'Brein: Initially no, but as I got further in the process it became clear KU was a program with a good future, and the thought of being close to home interested me.
PBR: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Where did the school you committed to first see you play?
O'Brien: My recruiting process started my freshman year but started to pick up during my sophomore season. Kansas watched me play several times in the summer between my sophomore and junior year.
PBR: What do you like most about the program you chose, and what were the key factors in making your decision?
O'Brien: I have liked the program's direction since Coach Fitzgerald and his staff arrived two years ago. I have talked to coaches from all over the country, but I connected right away with Coach Coyne, after spending in Lawrence I knew it was a great fit for me.
PBR: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college-caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?
O'Brien: After having success at the Junior Future Games and other national events I knew I had the talent to compete at the next level.
PBR: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?
O'Brien: Be consistent in your training and you will see results.
PBR: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?
O'Brien: Being named the 2023 Kansas 5A Player of the Year
PBR: Preview your high school team's season for us. How do you feel your team will be?
O'Brien: Expectations are always high at Aquinas. We return almost our entire lineup and pitching rotation plus we added Coach Sabath and his experienced coaching staff.