Daniel Rowbottom, OF, St. Igantius HS, Class of 2013

PBR: Why did you choose Illinois?

Rowbottom: Illinois had everything I was looking for in a college. It had the big college feel, a great business program, and an outstanding baseball program which made my decision very easy.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Rowbottom: Cincinnati, Valparaiso, Wright State, Northwestern

PBR: Where did the Illinois coaches first see you?  How did your relationship develop with them?

Rowbottom: The Illinois coaching staff first saw me during a tournament I was in at Illinois State with the Midwest Pelicans. I ended up having a great weekend and on the way home from the tournament I was asked to make a stop on campus and we've stayed in touch ever since.

PBR:  Was distance from home a factor in your decision?

Rowbottom: Yes, I was most comfortable within about 6 hours away from home so I would still be able to make the trip home to see my family and so they can come watch me play.

PBR:  You recently attended PBR’s Top Prospect Showcase.  How did that help you in the recruiting process?

Rowbottom: PBR played a big role in my recruiting process because of the exposure it gave me to many of the colleges I've talked to. The video PBR supplied also was very helpful.

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play your first year on campus?

Rowbottom: The coaches feel that I fit in with their program and plans and they expect me to compete early on in my career there.

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? 

Rowbottom: I hoped to have the opportunity to look at a variety of different schools and programs to find the right balance and the right fit for my interests.

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?

Rowbottom: My hitting instructor, Coach Dan Smego, who I've been working with since I was 7.

PBR: What were your stats this spring season at St. Ignatius?

Rowbottom: .313 AVG /9 Doubles/ 3 Triples/ 1 Home run with a wooden bat

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher that you have faced in Ohio?

Rowbottom: Zach Farmer