Alex Mezcua, RHP, Mason HS, Class of 2013

PBR: Why did you choose Thomas More?

Mezcua:  I selected Thomas More College for numerous reasons, including academics, school size, location, and their athletics.  I was looking for a school close to home, where I can get an excellent education and at the same time play baseball and contribute to my team. I experienced great chemistry with the coaching staff, and players and in particular with the Pitching Coach Jeremy Martin. They were friendly and seemed to truly focus on good solid moral character in their players on and off the field.  We share the same philosophy, respect and approach to the game.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Mezcua:  Other schools I considered, where Northern Kentucky, Centre, Miami University, St. Vincent, College of Mount St Joseph, Ohio Wesleyan, Ohio Dominican, Capital University, and OSU Lima.

PBR: Where did the coaches first see you? How did your relationship develop with their coaching staff?

Mezcua:  I believe the coaches first saw me play during a game, and then again during practice.  I was then introduced by one of my coaches Coach Cary Daniel of Cincinnati Baseball Club to their coaching staff.  

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

Mezcua:  The role the coaches expect me to play my freshman year is dependent on me.  As a freshman likely as a long reliever and depending on my performance move up the ladder.  I'm extremely focused and dedicated to take my game to the next level.

PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that you will help Thomas More baseball?

Mezcua:  My biggest strength and what I will offer the team is my strong mental game and composure even in tight situations.  I am a methodical and crafty pitcher who keeps batters off balance with a wide selection of pitches including curveball, slider, sinker and cutter.  At the college level most good hitters can hit fastballs regardless of the speed, but trying to hit the other "junk" is how you really keep them off timing. 

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was the most memorable experience from this summer?

Mezcua:  My summer team this year is the 18U Cincinnati Baseball Club Redhawks. One of my most memorable experience from last year was throwing 2 shut out games, a no hitter and also starting pitcher with the 18U CBC Redhawks in a CABA World Series in Charleston, South Carolina.

PBR: Now that you have your commitment out of the way, what are your goals both individually and for the team for the rest of your senior season?

Mezcua:  My goals individually are to continue to refine my skills through training with my pitching coaches, eat healthy and working out and getting stronger. As for my college team, my goal is to contribute winning the conference championship.

PBR: What were your stats for last spring season at Mason?

Mezcua:  I did not play baseball for Mason High School except for my freshman year.  I focused on playing up in age on a competitive team against the best competition in the region while traveling to several states.  My overall record was 7-3 with over 38K and 2.15 ERA.

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

Mezcua:  The toughest hitters I faced in Ohio I would have to say were against the Midland Redskins, especially their "clean up man".