Q&A with Minnesota-Duluth Commit Travis Berg

September 30, 2015

By Matt Huck
Area Scout

Recently 2016 RHP Travis Berg of Eau Claire Memorial committed to Minnesota-Duluth. Berg is currently ranked No. 39 in the Wisconsin Class of 2016. Here is a report on Berg from the 2015 Badger State Battle.

Travis Berg 7/12/15 - 6-foot-3, 215-pound, right-handed pitcher with a large frame. Currently ranked No. 44 in the Wisconsin Class of 2016. On the mound works from an over the top arm angle with a short, quick arm action. Short leg lift with an online delivery. Works fast. Fastball sat 84-85 topping out at 87 mph. Curveball sat 73-74 mph. Changeup showed sink at 74 mph. Uncommitted.

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? Was it as expected? Easy/Difficult

Berg: My recruiting process was relatively easy, although at times it could get frustrating. I had a lot of help from Greg Reinhard during it all and he made it go much smoother.

PBR: What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Berg: I wanted a program with a winning tradition and a chance to play as a freshman. I also wanted a coaching staff that I felt comfortable with and develops pitchers. Playing in a great conference in the NSIC was also very attractive. I also wanted a place that I knew I would enjoy outside of baseball.

PBR: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?

Berg: Location did not play a factor in my decision, but being close to home will be nice so my parents can still watch my games.

PBR: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Was there a particular game or event that you feel turned the corner for you?

Berg: The recruiting process started to heat up for me after my summer season with the GRB Rays ended. That’s when I got majority of my offers, and I started to visit schools.

PBR: Where did the college you chose first see you? How did your relationship develop with them?

Berg: UMD first saw me when I went up to campus in January for an unofficial visit. We stayed in contact throughout the season and I went back up in July and threw a bullpen for them. After the second visit we stayed in contact more regularly and maintained a relationship.

PBR: What do you like most about the college you committed to and what were the key factors in making your decision?

Berg: I liked everything about Duluth. They have a great student life, along with great athletics, and a beautiful campus. It made me feel at home.

PBR: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?

Berg: Winona St., SCSU, and Indian Hills Community College.

PBR: Who is the best player you have faced in your state, and why?

Berg: I’ve played many great players, but one who stood out to me was Terrin Vavra from Menomonie. He can hit for power and strength and can also hit to all parts of the field. He has very little weaknesses at the plate.

PBR: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?

Berg: I realized I was a college caliber player was freshman year when Greg Reinhard asked me to play for the GRB Rays.

PBR: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?

Berg: Work hard and when things get hard, don’t give up. Hard work will always pay off. Play your hardest and do your best in every game, because you never know who is watching and what might come from that.

PBR: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?

Berg: The most memorable moment comes from playing with the GRB Rays. There is nothing better than playing on a team filled with Division 1 commits. Also the van rides are always fun.

PBR: Preview your high school season for us. How do you feel your team will be? What are your expectations and goals?

Berg: Our team will be very deep in pitching. We return all of our pitchers from last season and look to build on that. We lost some key components in our lineup, but we have some young players who I think will fill in nicely. Our goals are to win the conference, and make it to state.

PBR: Where do you play in the summer? And what has been your most memorable experience with them?

Berg: I play for the GRB Rays and going to Tennessee and Georgia for two weeks was something I will never forget. Greg and Max are great coaches, but also love to have fun.

Q&A with Minnesota-Duluth Commit Travis Berg

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