Kyle Michalik, a 2013 two-way player from Brunswick, chooses to play baseball at The Ohio State University.  Kyle talks about why he decided to make his college decision prior to Junior season.  Read more...

By Travis Cox

PBR:  Which schools were you considering prior to committing to The Ohio State University?
Michalik: I had looked at Kent State, Cincinnati, Michigan State, and Michigan which are all GREAT schools. My final 2 choices were Ohio State and Kent State.

PBR:  Why did you choose OSU?
Michalik: OSU has a so much to offer academically and as an athlete. I want to go into nursing or sports therapy and they have great programs. I was able to visit the nursing school and ask questions which gave me a great look at their program.  

PBR:  What was the relationship you had with the Coach Beals and the rest of the coaching staff in the recruitment process?
Michalik: Coach Beals and his staff were great. They made me feel comfortable starting with their showcase they invited me to and then all through the process. I went and watched the team practice quite a few times and met the players. Their coaching style is very similar to my high school Coach Todd Winston so I knew it would be a great fit and an easy transition.

PBR:  How much of a relief is it to have your commitment made prior to your Junior season?
Michalik: It’s a huge relief to know where you’re going to college as a junior. You have no idea when you start all this how much stress you’ll be under. Now I can just concentrate on my school work and my game and help my high school teammates win a state championship.

PBR:  The Buckeyes are recruiting you as a 2 way player, how difficult do you think this will be at the collegiate level?
Michalik: I know it’s going to be a lot of work having 2 workout routines, but the coach Beals has a program geared for 2 way players. All the coaches talk so they’ll know where I’m at in my routines and work outs and what my pitching schedule will be. I’m looking forward to the challenge and I’ve always worked hard for something I want to achieve. I love both position and hitting and I’m ready. 

PBR:  What were your spring 2011 stats both on the mound and at the plate?
Michalik I pitched sparingly because we had such a young team and my coach needed me defensively. .389 batting avg. ,.550slug pct ., 456 ob pct .922 fielding pct. 16 rbi’s 10runs.

PBR: Who did you play for this summer and, if played, this fall, as well as will be playing for next summer?
Michalik: During the summer I played for the Up To Bat Titans. I made a change to the T3 Pelicans in Avon for the fall and will be playing for them also this summer.

PBR:  What awards and honors have you received so far?
Michalik:. Brunswick HS up and coming freshman award, 1^st team North East Ohio NOC all-conference 2011, 1^st team all-county 2011, Ohio House of Representatives tribute for All-Gazette team honor.

PBR:  On the mound which pitches do you throw?
Michalik: I throw a 2 seam and a 4 seam fastball, curve, slider and a changeup.

PBR:  What do you feel are your strengths as a baseball player?
Michalik: I think my strength is my ability to compete both offensively and defensively and also attack the   hitters off the mound.

PBR:  What has been the most memorable moment on the diamond for you so far?
Michalik: My most memorable moment would be playing my first varsity high school game as a freshman. The thrill is something you never forget. I can’t wait to do it again as a Buckeye!