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Marcus Ernst, INF, Dublin Coffman HS, Class of 2018

PBR: Why did you choose Ohio State?

Ernst: I chose Ohio State because I felt it was the best place for me succeed both on the field and off the field.  The academics at Ohio State are great and the opportunities on the field were equally as good.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Ernst: My decision came down to Ohio State and Xavier.  Both schools were tremendous options for me and it was hard to say no to one. 

PBR: Where did Coach Beals first see you?  How did your relationship develop with them?

Ernst: Coach Beals saw me play multiple times throughout the previous summer.  He followed our team and saw us play a lot, because he was also recruiting some of my other teammates as well.

PBR: Ohio State is basically in your backyard.  How much of a role did distance play in your decision?

Ernst: Being 30 minutes from my home definitely played a role in my decision.  Having my family that close will also be nice.  Also, growing up a big Ohio State fan was a big factor.  It's always been a dream of mine to be a buckeye, and when that opportunity presented itself, it would've been very hard to turn down.

PBR: You are considered a two-way prospect by many colleges, what are you and the coaching staff’s expectations once you step on the OSU campus?

Ernst: At Ohio State I will be a position player primarily.  If the pitching develops into something, that will be great.  But, my primary focus will be on a position player.

PBR:  Who do you play for in the summer and what is your most memorable experience?

Ernst: The past couple years I have played for Ohio Elite, but this year we are keeping our team but changing our name to Bo Jackson Baseball.  Playing with Ohio Elite has created so many opportunities and memories for me.  My favorite memory is either playing at Vanderbilt or Perfect Game Park this previous year.  

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process?

Ernst: Going into the recruiting process I wasn't expecting as much communication as there was.  I didn't expect be talking to so many coaches every week.  Although, I enjoyed it and am very grateful for the coaches that showed interest in me.

PBR: What were your stats last spring?

Ernst: I only played in 5 games during the high school season due to a torn meniscus.  I tore my meniscus during the second game, but was able to return for the last weekend of the regular season and the tournament.  

PBR: Who is the best pitcher that you have ever faced?

Ernst: The best pitcher I have ever faced was Jordan Balazovic when he played for the Ontario Blue Jays.  He was recently drafted by the Twins.