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?

Thomas: I didn’t really have any expectations going into the recruiting process. The things I was looking for out of a college program exceeded just athletics. I wanted a school that could offer a great education, coupled with a great college environment, but most importantly, an exceptional coaching staff with future goals to grow, and develop the program, and where I felt confident I could also further advance my skills. 

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

Thomas: Distance in location didn’t play a large factor in my decision. My number one criteria is going to a school/program where I believe in the coaches in program, and can continue to grow, develop my skills and play the game. 

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

Thomas: Every player should consider every game as part of the recruiting process. Coaches are looking at you before they can talk to you. The official recruiting process for me started August 1 going into my junior year. The future games played a huge role and exposure for me and getting my name out there, as well as the Creekside Summer circuit. Butler coaches first saw me at Grand Park, Indianapolis. 

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

Thomas: What I like most is the campus five, training facilities, in developmental resources, and most of all the coaches, their energy envision for the future of the program. The coaches are not only committed to helping you be the best athlete you can be, but also to receiving the best education. I felt wholeheartedly The coaches are truly investing in me and the team.

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

Thomas: I didn’t really get the opportunity to pitch against teams from Missouri this summer. I always pitched against teams out of state. So I can’t think of a player in the state who I’ve faced.  

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?

Thomas: My goal has always been to play baseball at a higher level, and going into my sophomore. Summer was when it became more eye-opening that it was possible.

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

Thomas: Always keep moving forward. Don’t let any outcomes or circumstances set you back from what you were trying to achieve. Keep setting goals, and be disciplined and working towards them, and remember, you never know who is watching, so always hustle, have a good attitude, and deliver your best. And remember delivering your best doesn’t always mean you will win every game.

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

Thomas: Freshman year of high school ball, I walked the first batter of the game on a 3-2 count. After that, I didn’t give up another baserunner. If I didn’t walk the first batter, I would have had a perfect game.

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

Thomas: This year I believe the ceiling is high for us Falcons. We have tons of depth all around, paired with great team chemistry. Everyone in the program is pushing themselves this off season to be the best player they can be for the upcoming spring. We’ve got lots of goals this season. We’ve got our eyes on that ring. 

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