No. 1 Ranked 2016 Prospect Commits to Radford University
July is the time when players entering their senior year of high school can commit to a college. It took all month, but Chaminade catcher and top ranked prospect on the island, Straton Podaras, decided to take his talents to Radford University. The Division-I school is coming off a 45-win season in which they won the Big South conference and advanced to play in the Nashville Regional. They won two games but were shutout 21-0 by No. 1 ranked Vanderbilt University–who ultimately lost the College World Series. I had a chance to speak with Podaras on his decision and his influences during his playing days. Here’s what he had to say… Congrats on committing to Radford University, can you talk a little about how you came to your decision?
My goal was to play for a winning program and have the opportunity to compete for a national title. Furthermore, I wanted to play for a school where baseball was supported by both the school and students. When I went to visit Radford, I felt that it met all of my requirements.
Who are some people who have influenced you during your playing career?
My father was a big influence in my baseball career. He taught me how hard work is necessary to accomplish your goals. Coach Gatti who worked with me since I was 7-years old; Coach Manning who has supported me throughout my travel high school career and Coach Clark who believed in my abilities before I did.
What are your goals for 2016 ?
Preparing myself for the next level of baseball in college and winning another CHSAA championship with the Flyers.
Now that you are considered the top prospect in the 2016 class, do you feel that pitchers attack you differently?
Yes; I have had to learn how to be more patient at the plate and wait for the pitcher to make a mistake. Swing at my pitch and not the pitchers.
Who are some players you look up to or did when you were younger?
I look at Yadier Molina as my ultimate goal as a catcher. He does more than the big things right; he does all the small stuff too. He controls the game through the pitcher, the bases and is a true leader. Wish he played for the Mets!!!!
What has been your proudest achievement on the baseball field?
Winning Catcher of the year as a sophomore in the CHSAA and winning the CHSAA championship this year.
Vinny is the President of Axcess Baseball. He is a 2013 graduate of Adelphi University and he is currently the Long Island area scout for the San Diego Padres
What are your goals for 2016 ?
