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Mason DeAnna, C, St. Edwards, Class of 2015

PBR: Why did you choose Cincinnati?

DeAnna: It seemed like the right fit for me, as soon as I stepped on campus for my visit, the Cincinnati coaching staff made me feel right at home. Not only is it the right fit for me from a baseball aspect but also a good place for me to get an education.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

DeAnna: Akron, Dayton, Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan, and Marshall

PBR: Coach Neal was a big part of the success at why Indiana went to the College World Series. How quickly do you think that success can transfer to Bearcat baseball?

DeAnna: Coach Neal is coach that expects a lot from his players and I strongly respect that. He brings a winning attitude to everything he does and that’s why I believe Cincinnati will benefit from that in the next few years and become one of the top baseball programs in the north. His attention to detail and focus on the fundamentals is incredible.

PBR: Where did the Coach Neal first see you compete and how did your relationship develop with the rest of the coaching staff?

DeAnna: Coach Neal first saw me last year, but recently saw me early this June in a tournament in Indiana where I went 5 for 12 and threw 5 runners out. I also met Coach Lackoff and Coach Coffman at Midwest Pelicans showcases this January.

PBR: Was the recruiting process what you expected?

DeAnna: It was a little more stressful than I had imagined but was an awesome experience and I couldn't be more thrilled with the end result.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer?

DeAnna: Midwest Pelicans

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher you have faced?

DeAnna: Although I haven’t faced him, it would have to be Chris Machamer, I have caught for him numerous times and his velocity and the ability to locate are second to none.