Prep Baseball Report

Q and A with Thomas Moore Commit Zak Orlemann (Turpin)



Zak Orlemann, RHP, Turpin

PBR: Why did you choose Thomas Moore?

Orlemann:  I chose Thomas More because of their reputation as a baseball program.  I visited and really liked the coaches and players I met.  They have a solid program and I feel like they will be competing for the College World Series for years to come. 

PBR: What other schools were you considering?
Orlemann: I was also considering Centre, Wooster, and Mars Hill

PBR:  Where did the coaching staff first see you compete?
Orlemann: They saw me pitch during summer baseball

PBR:  Thomas Moore is very close to home.  How much of a role did that play when making you college decision?
Orlemann: It is nice that it is close to home however it did not really play a huge role.  My parents gave me an eight hour radius to go to college and Thomas More happened to fall within that range.

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play during your first year on campus?
Orlemann: All I know at this point is that the coaches feel I can contribute to the team next season, whether it's out of the pen or as a starter will be determined by how I play once I'm there next year.

PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that will help Thomas Moore baseball?
Orlemann: I really thrive off of pitching in intense situations where the game is on the line.  I also feel that my ability to lead will be crucial in helping the team.

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?
Orlemann: My summer coach Bill Boston.  Without a doubt he has made the greatest impact on me as a player.  Thanks to him I am where I am today.  He gave me the chance I needed to break through as a player.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?
Orlemann: I play for the Cincinnati Bats, but this year we are becoming part of the Cincinnati Sharks franchise. 

PBR: What were your stats last season for Turpin?
Orlemann: I had a 3.77 ERA, a 1.54 WHIP, 9Ks, 2 wins, and 13 IP

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter you have faced in Ohio?
Orlemann: The toughest hitter I have faced in Ohio is David Morton, who also plays at Turpin with me.  We have played his team in the summer and it seems like he finds a hole for everything thrown at him.  Thankfully we are playing on the same summer team this year so I no longer have to face him unless it's in an inter-squad scrimmage.