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Inside the Recruitment: 2016 RHP John Baker commitment to Ball State

August 20, 2015

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By Aaron Wilson
Michigan Assistant Director of Scouting

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Inside the Recruitment: 2016 RHP John Baker

John BakerJohn Baker, RHP, Hartland, 2016

PBR: Why did you choose Ball State?

Baker: This was a very tough decision for me because all the other schools that were interested in me I really liked. Also, I was very impressed with the coaching staffs I met with. However, from the first time I went on my visit to Ball State it just seemed right. Plus, with a coach like Coach Maloney, how could I go wrong. 

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Baker: Eastern, Toledo, Michigan, and Central Michigan

PBR: Where did the Coach Maloney first see you?

Baker: I am not exactly sure when he first saw me, but the communications with Ball State started after my performance at the PBR Showcase in February of this year. I do know that Coach Maloney was at the D1 Michigan High School Finals Game and has attended other games of mine (High School/Travel Team) when I have pitched. 

PBR: Was playing out of state a concern for you?

Baker: No not really. It would have been nice to play closer to home, but that was not a factor in my decision.

PBR: What team do you play for in the summer and what is your most memorable moment?

Baker: I played for the 18U Howell Hawks Gold this summer and we just finished up our season. I have played for the Hawks the last three years and have had several great memories playing we these guys. Top notch program. 

However, the most memorable moment I have to date is winning and pitching for Hartland High School in the D1 Michigan State High School Finals. This one will be hard to beat. I guess Hartland just needs to do it again next year.    

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process?

Baker: I really did not know what to expect, but I felt I was a little late to the recruiting process. Luckily, I had good resources to lean on from previous and present coaches.

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter  that you have faced?

Baker: I can remember pitching against Howell HS this spring and I was doing very well. However, one guy that I could not seem to get out was Austin Palo. I played with him the last three years with the Howell Hawks and he is a great player. 

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