OF Cole Pladson (Clay Center, 2025) solidified his status as an upper-tier prospect in the state this past spring. A high level athlete who also duels as a star football player for Clay Center, Pladson's sheer ability to hit was on full display over multiple stops this year.

He showed well at the Wichita Preseason ID last January, raked during the spring for his high school club, hit across multiple looks over the summer circuit, and he looked the part as a member of Team Select at the PBR Future Games as well.

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?

Pladson: I thought it was going to be a lot slower than it was. It was a fast process. I was looking for somewhere that had a good winning culture where I fit in. 

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

Pladson: Yes it did.

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

Pladson: It started to heat up after the Future Games. Oklahoma State first saw me play throughout this past summer. 

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

Pladson: I liked the family environment when I went on my visit. Even talking to the coaches for the first time it’s a big welcoming family. The relationships I had with the coaching staff and the culture were the biggest factors in making a decision. 

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

Pladson: Ole Miss and Wichita State.

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

Pladson: The best pitcher from Kansas I have faced is LHP Jack Schwab (Blue Valley, 2025; Arkansas commit). His two seam runs in on me and throws his slider well off that. He is a tough left on left matchup. 

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?

Pladson: I’ve always wanted to when I was younger and realized around 7th or 8th grade that I could play in college. I have always put in a lot of work to take my game to the next level since I was younger. 

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

Pladson: Consider extra work what is required and have fun while doing it. Have someone who is willing to put in the same work and have them push you. Getting fast and physical in the weight room also helps set yourself ahead of others. Commit yourself to eating well as well.

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

Pladson: The most recent memorable moment was committing to Oklahoma State. It was a great moment for me and my family of the work that paid off and of what is to come in the future. 

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

Pladson: I feel like we will continue the success we have had the past couple years. The team is looking forward to winning regionals and making it to state for the fourth year in a row.

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