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Tyler Hays, RHP, Copley HS, Class of 2018

PBR: Why did you choose Bowling Green?
Hays:  After visiting a number of other campuses, Bowling Green was where I felt most comfortable…it felt like home.  I have developed a great relationship with the coaching staff and like where they are taking the program. I feel it is the best place for me both from an academic and baseball standpoint. 

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Hays:   Cincinnati, Evansville, Ohio and Wright St  

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

Hays:   Coach Schmitz and Coach Blanc (Pitching Coach) first saw me at the Top Prospect Game last June in Cincinnati. After seeing me pitch in a number of my summer tournaments and at the Futures Game, I went for a campus visit in August.  Coach Schmitz and Coach Blanc gave me an offer that day and we have stayed in contact on a consistent basis throughout the recruiting process. 

PBR: How does it feel to be a part of a Division 1 baseball program?

Hays:   It is very exciting because playing Division 1 baseball has always been a top goal of mine.

PBR: BG is in your backyard.  How much of a role did distance play in your decision?

  Hays:   While my decision was made based upon BG being the best fit for me, it is an added bonus that it is only two hours away from home. It is great that my family will get to see most of my games. 

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

Hays:   I play for Bo Jackson Elite. My most memorable experience from the summer was being a member of Team Ohio and playing in the Futures Game versus Team Pennsylvania. 

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? 

Hays:  Going into the recruiting process, I wasn't sure what to expect.  I was fortunate to have a number of people who have helped me a long the way in my baseball career to provide me guidance.  I got to meet a lot of great coaches during the process.  

PBR: What were your stats this spring season?

Hays:  So far this season my pitching record is 3-1 with a 1.72 ERA and 43 strikeouts in 27 innings pitched. 

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

Hays:  Bubba Arsalanian from Aurora