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Monday October 31, 2011

Jeff P (Guest Writer – MLB reports):  I had the pleasure to recently interview one of the top prospects in the game, Robert Erlin of the San Diego Padres.  The 21-year-old Erlin was drafted by the Texas Rangers in the 3rd round of the 2009 draft.  After posting incredible numbers in his brief time in the Rangers organization, Erlin was traded in July 2011, with Joe Wieland for reliever Mike Adams.  While Adams was a solid addition to the Rangers bullpen on the road to the World Series, Erlin exploded after the trade.  In 6 starts with San Antonio in AA, Erlin had a 1.38 ERA, 1.154 WHIP and 31/4 SO/BB.  On the fast track with the Padres, Erlin has a good chance of making his major league debut as early as 2012.  Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with Padres Prospect, Robbie Erlin:

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MLB reports:  Hey, Robbie.  First of all, I want to thank you for being with us today, it really is an honor to have you with us.  I’m sure you have a busy schedule so, let’s get this started.  First off:

MLB reports:  You have been outstanding to late, and even became a nominee of MLB.com‘s top 50 prospects, who can you thank for your success?

Robbie Erlin:  I would thank my dad who taught me how to pitch at a young age, Dave Salter, my pitching coach since I was 13 years old, all the coaches in the Texas Rangers organization who I have worked with during my first couple years of pro ball, and the coaches on the San Antonio Missions who I got to work with for a couple of months this season. 

MLB reports:  Was it hard to adjust from the Rangers to the Padres?

Robbie Erlin:  It wasn’t too hard to make the adjustment. The Padres and Missions staff let me stick with my routines and throwing program and the players were very helpful with any questions that I had.

MLB reports:  What do you think is unique about the San Diego Padres organization?

Robbie Erlin:  The amount of young talent that they have in both the minor leagues and at the major league level. 

MLB reports:  What are your daily rituals, and hobbies off the field?

Robbie Erlin:  I watch the TV show “Las Vegas” everyday before I go to the field. In the offseason I enjoy spending time with my family and visiting my friends who are in college.

MLB reports:  You have been dominating lately. What changes have you made in order to succeed?

Robbie Erlin:  I have really tried to concentrate on hitters’ tendencies and gaining information about offenses so I can apply it in my outings. Also, I have made small adjustments in my delivery so it looks the same on every pitch. 

MLB reports:  What were the reactions on you getting drafted, and the after party?

Robbie Erlin:  My family, friends, and I were very excited about getting drafted. I wanted to play baseball after high school and the Rangers provided me with the opportunity. 

MLB reports:  Out of your fastball, curveball, and change-up, what would you say is your strongest pitch?

Robbie Erlin:  Fastball.

MLB reports:  Is it safe to say we can see you in MLB in late 2012, or 2013?

Robbie Erlin:  That is a decision for the Padres to make. I am going to focus on pitching and improving as much as I can. 

MLB reports:  Who do you look up to in the MLB?

Robbie Erlin:  There is not one specific player. I watch all of them and try to learn from how they play the game.

MLB reports: What kind of music can one find on your iPod?

Robbie Erlin:  Country, Classic Rock, Pop, and Rap. 

MLB reports:  What’s your favorite sport besides baseball?

Robbie Erlin:  Football.

MLB reports:  Who was the hardest batter you’ve faced in your professional career?

Robbie Erlin:  Cody Hinze from Houston has always been a tough out for me.

MLB reports:  Let’s end it off here: If you weren’t a baseball player, where would you see yourself today?

Robbie Erlin:  I would be in college working towards a degree. 

MLB reports:  Thank you very much for taking your time out of your busy schedule so we can have you with us. Much appreciated!

Robbie Erlin:  No problem. Thank you very much for the interview!

Thank you again to Robbie Erlin for taking the time to join us today on MLB reports.  We highly encourage our readers to post at the bottom of the article any questions and/or comments that you may have for Robbie.  As well, please follow Robbie on Twitter (@RobbieErlin11)

***Today’s feature was prepared by Jeff P, Guest Writer to MLB reports.  We highly encourage you to leave your comments and feedback at the bottom of the page and share in the discussion with our readers.  You can also follow Jeff on Twitter.***

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