Nicholas Longo, OF, St. Ignatius HS, Class of 2014

PBR: Why did you choose Miami?

Longo: I chose Miami because of the academic and athletic opportunity it offers me.  Also, I feel very comfortable with the University and the coaching staff.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Longo: I was considering Nebraska, Ohio State, Ole Miss and Michigan State.

PBR:  Where did the coaching staff first see you compete?

Longo: I am not sure, but I think it could have been at CABA World Series, Underclass Games or the Midwest Futures Games.

PBR: You are going in to your Junior season.  Why did you choose to make your decision so early?  Are you completely finished with the recruiting process or are you still open to other options?  

Longo: Miami is a great fit for me. If baseball is taken away from, I can still see myself attending Miami. I am happy with my decision.

PBR:  This summer you participated in PBR’s Underclass Games.  How much exposure did you receive after playing in this event?

Longo: I received a lot of exposure after the UC Games. There were several colleges that contacted me.

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process?

Longo: I knew the process would make me nervous, but at the same time I knew it would be fun and exciting. 

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

Longo: My dad is the biggest impact on me as a baseball player. He is always encouraging me to be the best I can be. My hitting coach Dave Kajganich is also a huge impact on me as a baseball player.  He is not just a great hitting coach, but he is always teaching me the mental side of the game. He has taught me how to act when times get tough and how to fight through them.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?

Longo: I am playing this summer with the Midwest Pelicans. Last summer, I played with Northern Ohio Baseball for coach Dave Pastors. My most exciting experience in summer ball was participating in the Midwest Futures Games for Team Ohio in Champaign, Illinois. 

PBR: What were your stats last season for St. Ignatius?

Longo: I was a Sophomore on a mostly Senior starting team. So playing time was limited, but when my number was called I usually came through. 

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

Longo: Eric Lauer, Midview High School and Kent State recruit.