By Phil Wade
Indiana Executive Director

Eastern (Greentown) High School senior catcher Matt Simmerman recently committed to Southeastern Community College in West Burlington, IA. Simmerman, a 6-foot-1, 220 pound catcher, was 1.94-2.00 with his pop times at last winter's Preseason All-State showcase in Indianapolis.  He possesses quick hands at the plate with present power.  At the Preseason All-State he registered an exit velocity of 91 mph.  

PBR: Ultimately, why did you choose Southeastern?

Simmerman: I chose Southeastern because I liked the campus,facilities,the coaches and their philosophies, plus the offer was too good to turn down.

PBR: Where did Southeastern first see you compete?

Simmerman: I went to controlled chaos baseball showcase.

PBR: When did you take your first visit to Southeastern?

Simmerman: I visited Southeastern on September 26th.

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play when you first arrive on campus next fall?

Simmerman: At Southeastern Coach Shulte and Coach Michael see me as the number one guy coming in behind the plate, playing in 50 plus games. 

PBR: Were there any other schools you were considering?

Simmerman: I looked at Lincoln Trail, Parkland, Kishwaukee, and also had 1st base looks from Purdue.

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

Simmerman:  With out a doubt it's my Dad, he has done everything he could financially to help me become the best I could can be. From paying to taking me back and forth from all the different training I've received, games and other things. Always telling me, "everyone wants to be good, you train and practice to be great" and always to stay humble.

PBR: You played for the Indiana Prospects in the summer, how has playing with them helped you develop as a baseball player?

Simmerman: Playing this summer was a good experience. Did a lot of travel and seen some of the top teams in the Nation.

PBR: What are you goals both individually and as team this coming spring at Eastern?

Simmerman: My personal goal is to be named to the all-state team and play in the North/South game. As a team we have a good group of guys back this year and are wanting to win the Sectional and go deep into the tourney. 

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher you've faced in Indiana? 

Simmerman: I'm not sure, I don't get caught up in who the pitcher is, I do what I do. I have faced Luke Stephenson and Daniel Ayers as a freshman.

PBR: What were your stats last spring at Eastern?

Simmerman: I had a .478 AVG, .604 OBP, .739 slug%, and 1.345 OPS.

PBR: What is your most memorable baseball moment to date?

Simmerman: I would say this summer. I had a great summer being named to three Perfect Game All-Tournament Teams with one being the WWBA 17U National Championship where I batted .526 for the tourney.