Masashi Sakamoto, RHP/OF, Dublin Jerome HS, Class of 2013

PBR: Why did you choose Akron?

Sakamoto: I chose the University of Akron because of there excellent baseball program and there great facilities. I also felt very comfortable with the coaching staff and the team. When I was on my visit and I was watching the team practice, I felt like Akron would be a great place to improve my baseball skills.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Sakamoto:Lake Erie College, Ohio University, Ball State University and several other schools that I took a unofficial visit to.

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

Sakamoto: Akron first saw me at the Top Prospect Games. Since then, we were close in contact and I decided to visit the campus.

PBR: What is it like to be apart of Coach Rembielak's second recruiting class at Akron?

Sakamoto: I am very excited to be apart of the team next year and I believe that we will be a tough team to beat next year.

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play your first year on campus?

Sakamoto: The coaches at Akron believe that I could be a good pitcher out of the bullpen.

PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that you will help Akron?

Sakamoto: I think my biggest strength as a player is my athleticism and my arm strength. I believe that after my first year I can pitch and play outfield.

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

Sakamoto: I played for 17U Ohio Elite (Winter) this summer and the most memorable part was just playing baseball with my close friends and hanging out with them.

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

Sakamoto: Of course my family has a huge impact on me, but I've been blessed with excellent coaches these past few years.

PBR: What were your stats for this spring season at Dublin Jerome?

Sakamoto:  Batting: AVG .362 , HR 2 , RBI 17   Pitching: W-L 5-4 , ERA 1.34 , IP 57.1, SO 39

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

Sakamoto: There are a lot of good hitters like Zach Sterry, Tom Stoffel, and Eric Lauer