September 8, 2011
Andrew Suarez, a Left-handed pitcher from Miami, Florida, was drafted by the Blue Jays in the 9th round (289th overall) in 2011. Suarez attended Christopher Columbus High School, in Miami, Florida, the school of current MLB superstar, Alex Rodriguez. Suarez was a talented LHP which showed through many awards he received: 3-time all county 1st team, 2-time all state 1st team, AFLAC All American, and County Pitcher of the Year. He was also named to the first team Rawlings pre-season All America team by Perfect Game. This also, named a few other Blue Jays draftees: Christian Lopes, Daniel Norris and Dwight Smith Jr. That said, Suarez chose to honour his commitment to the University of Miami, resulting in a decision not to sign with the Blue Jays.
What was the draft process like for you?
Andrew Suarez: It was pretty crazy. I’ve never been so nervous in my life, but it was a good experience and I am very fortunate to have gotten drafted.
What made you choose to go the college root and not sign with the Jays?
Andrew Suarez: I became a big Jays fan throughout this summer when I met some of the scouts and watched more Jays games, but I always wanted to be part of the Miami Hurricane legacy and try to make it to the College World Series.
What are you going to be studying at University of Miami?
Andrew Suarez: I will be studying Criminology.
What are you most excited about heading into the University of Miami?
Andrew Suarez: Wearing the Hurricane uniform and playing in the field in front of my hometown.
How did you do for your summer ball team? What was that experience like?
Andrew Suarez: I went 9-0 with a 0.90 ERA, 54 Ks in 39 IP and 13 BB. The experience was unforgettable, I had a lot of fun with my new teammates and coaches the whole summer.
When was the first time that you realized that you could do something with baseball?
Andrew Suarez: Freshman year in high school when I made the varsity team and fought for the #1 spot and got it. I knew I had to keep working hard after that, and I ended coming here to the U.
Did you play any other sports while growing up?
Andrew Suarez: In middle school I played basketball and volleyball but I didn’t play too serious.
Can you give me a detailed description of your arsenal? As well as stating what you’re out pitch is?
Andrew Suarez: I have a 4-seam and 2-seam fastball, circle change, and curveball. My out pitch would probably be my curveball.
What do you do in the off-season to prepare for the upcoming season?
Andrew Suarez: I lift weights and condition heavy. I also long toss and throw bullpens and do drills.
What is your most memorable baseball moment?
Andrew Suarez: My most memorable baseball moment would be when I was 12 and my team won Cooperstown. I can still remember it like it was yesterday.
What was your favourite team growing up?
Andrew Suarez: I’m a Miami guy so I always liked watching the Marlins.
If you could pick one player in the MLB you model yourself after whom would it be and why?
Andrew Suarez: Gio Gonzalez from the Oakland A’s is my role model. He’s a local guy and many here in Miami compared me to him when I was in high school. Everything time he pitches he goes all out and never backs down from any hitter.
Jays Prospects would just like to thank Andrew Suarez for the time and effort he put into this and to wish him well at the University of Miami. For those on Twitter, give Andrew a follow.