Steve Reba’s Chat Wrap-up

May 31, 2001

Clemson ace Steve Reba will visit TheACC.com for a live chat from his hotel in Miami Thursday at 12 noon. The Tigers are preparing to meet the Hurricanes in an NCAA Super Regional this weekend.

The junior right-hander is a first-team All-ACC selection, as well as a third-team Collegiate Baseball All-American. Reba leads the ACC in wins (12), ERA (2.15), strikeouts (99) and opponent’s batting average (.203). His 12 wins ties him for the sixth best win total in school history.

Reba is a native of Fort Wayne, IN and has a career record of 19-7 with 169 strikeouts in 194.1 innings pitched.

Steve Reba is ready to join us from Miami, Fla.

TigerFan – Miami, Fla. – It’s been very hot and humid in Miami the last couple of days. Are you concerned about the weather? and what advantages or disadvantages does it give you?

Steve Reba – I don’t think it is an advantage or disadvantage. It is pretty hot in South Carolina too. I think the team will be fine with it. The game is going to be played at night. I don’t think it will be much of a factor, we will drink more water.

Mike – Clemson, S.C. – How do you think our pitching staff will hold up against top-ranked Miami?

Steve Reba – I think there is a lot of parity in college baseball and I think anyone can beat anyone. I think we have a pretty deep staff. If we need to give the ball to a reliever early in the game or late in the game, I think they can get the job done.

John – Marion, S.C. – In terms of warming up, pitch selection or mental preparation do you prepare any differently to pitch against a team that hits as well as Miami? Congratulations on a great year and Go Tigers!!!

Steve Reba – No, I really don’t. I try to not stray from what I have done all year, mentally or warming up in the bullpen. I like to stick with the same thing. Personally I like to approach them the same way as any team.

Melissa – Clemson, S.C. – Do you ever feel like you are competing against the other pitchers on your team for playing time? Is there any competition between you?

Steve Reba – Yeah, there is a lot of inter-team competition within the pitching staff. I think we have 12 guys here, it is a fight for playing time. Usually consistency gets you back out there.

Terry – Clemson, S.C. –Steve, I’ve noticed the support you’ve had from your family at the Clemson games. Your grandmother who is in a wheelchair has been at just about every game whether you were pitching or not. Has this helped you in your career knowing you had such support?

Steve Reba – Definitely. I love for them to come to all the games and have the opportunity to watch me play. I wouldn’t have it any other way, it is great.

Terry – Clemson, S.C. –Have you received any indication about where you might be drafted? What all will you consider in determining whether to go pro or return for your senior season?

Steve Reba – I have heard a few things from various people. I have heard round five to 10. I really don’t know. I am trying not to focus on it. When the draft does come I will make the decision. Right now I am focused on getting back to Omaha.

Steve Reba – We have to leave for practice now, thanks for your questions.