By LOU PAVLOVICH, JR.
Editor/Collegiate Baseball
STANFORD, Calif. — Possibly the greatest recruiter in college baseball history was Dean Stotz of Stanford University.
He retired after the 2013 season and was Mark Marquess’ top lieutenant for 37 seasons with the Cardinal.
His ability to evaluate and recruit players was second to none.
In this article, Stotz explains for the first time what his secrets were to churning out numerous top 10 recruiting classes over the years that allowed Stanford to win two national titles in 1987 and 1998, finish second three times, make 14 appearances at the College World Series and win 12 conference championships.
The Cardinal went to 28 NCAA Regionals and won 1,495 games with Stotz on board.
Incredibly, 56 former players reached the Major Leagues during Stotz’s tenure.
Stotz explains how he recruited at such a high level for nearly four decades.
“First of all, there is nothing more important to a parent than their children,” said Stotz.
“It is the most precious gift given to them in the whole world. When parents decide to send a son to play with your school, they are virtually entrusting you to develop them during those 3-4 years they are with you. And the impact you will have on their growth as a human being and athlete is enormous.
“You are receiving the baton as they develop into adulthood. It is now your responsibility to develop that person educationally, mentally, physically and in other areas as well.
“It is a daunting thought process. The recruiting process for me was always trying to figure out what was important to that family in the development of their son. What were they looking at? Were they looking for this kid to become more independent? Did they want him to grow up academically and be more responsible?
“They supply what they are trying to get out of a college commitment. Then you decide if you have the best environment in which to do that. Honestly, I never felt Stanford was the right call for every single person I recruited.
“Only after getting to know them and having them establish what was extremely important to them did I know if Stanford was a fit or not.”
Gathering Information
Stotz said that he compiled information on potential players from a number of sources.
To read more of this in-depth article, purchase the Oct. 2, 2015 edition of Collegiate Baseball by CLICKING HERE. He explains how to find coaching contacts across the USA who can lead you to great recruits. In addition, he explains how to get to know the kids you are after and figure out good fits. He also explains the home visit and finding out which parent in the decision maker in the family, plus much more.
Recent Comments