Travis Lakins, RHP, Franklin HS, Class of 2013

PBR: Why did you choose OSU?

Lakins: Ohio State was always my dream school when I was a little kid and it's nothing like going to one of the biggest schools in the United States to play baseball.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Lakins: Marshall, Evansville, Wright State, UC and Mississippi State

PBR: Where did Coach Beals first see you?  How did your relationship develop with them?

Lakins: Ohio State came and watched me very early in the season when I was playing with the Midland Redskins. As soon as I spoke with all of the coaches, I knew we had a great connection with each other.

PBR: You have made your commitment very early.  Why did you chose to make your decision so soon and are you finished with the recruiting process? 

Lakins: Right after I went on my visit I loved it and felt it was the right fit for me.
 

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

Lakins: All of the coaches said it's up to me to see how hard I work at it to get my position in the rotation.

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? 

Lakins: Everything was so intense to me but I kind of like all the attention.

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

Lakins: My dad. If it wasn’t for him dragging me back and forth to all my games, I wouldn’t be at the point I am at right now

PBR: What were your stats this spring season at Franklin?

Lakins: I went an overall 10-3 with an ERA of 1.26 with 100 strikeouts

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

Lakins: I've faced a lot of good hitters in Ohio so its hard to pick just one hitter.