Joshua Birnberg, SS, West Bloomfield HS, Class of 2014

PBR: Why did you choose Eastern Michigan?

Birnberg: I chose EMU because I was impressed with the new coaching staff that was brought in.  My dream has always been to be Division 1 baseball player. I felt that this was going to be a good fit for me.  It is a place I could see myself at the next four years.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Birnberg:  I had interest from a lot of smaller schools, but they didn't seem to be a good fit for me and my family.

PBR: Where did the coaching staff first see you?

Birnberg:Coach Vandy has seen me a few times over the years, but he has most recently seen me in a league game at Dakota High School.

PBR: What team do you play for in the summer and what is your most memorable moment.

Birnberg: I play for the 18U Motor City Hit Dogs.  My most memorable moments were being able to compete and win all over the country,  while forming lasting bonds with my teammates.

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process?

Birnberg:The recruiting process was a stressful one for me.  Finding the right fit for my family and I was very challenging.  I was waiting for the right fit to come around and it finally did.

PBR: What were your stats this spring season at West Bloomfield?

Birnberg: .465 average...35 rbis.. 10 doubles..2 triples..1 homerun

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher that you have faced?

Birnberg:Matt Ruppenthal has always been the toughest matchup for me. He is a good friend of mine and a former teammate. He has gotten the best of me in the past, but I hope I get the chance to get a little revenge in the future.