Interview with Blue Jays Prospect Ryan McBroom

Ryan McBroom was drafted in 2014 in the 15th round and has slowly been progressing through the minor leagues. At 24 the power first baseman reached AA last season but spent most of the time in Class A Dunedin. In Dunedin last season he hit .274 with 21 home runs and 83 RBI’s. McBroom did win the Class A Midwest League MVP honours in his first full pro season. McBroom’s time is now or never to make a jump through the minor leagues as he is 24 and is the oldest player in Class A.

Interview

Cole Shelton: Hey Ryan, thank you for doing this. First off, what was it like when you found out you got drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays?

Ryan McBroom: It was an exciting time for me and my family. I had no idea how great organization was until I showed up. Since day one, I’ve been treated like family. I truly couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity with such a great organization.

CS: Awesome to hear that the Jays organization is high class, before you got drafted did the Blue Jays give you any indication they were interested in you leading up to the draft?

RM: Yeah, I became close with my area scout Coulson, and he would always keep in touch with me. They weren’t showing the very most but definitely had me on the radar.

CS: Who are/were your greatest influences in your baseball career so far?

RM: When I was young I imitated Derek Jeter. I did everything he would do on the field. Now I’m influenced by my family, especially my parents, they deserve everything and then some. So as far as influencing my professional career, I like to give them that credit.

CS: You made it to AA last season, what is your goal for next season?

RM: My goal each and every year is to be the leader of a championship team. I believe if I can do that each year, the rest will take care of itself. So far, every team I’ve been a part of has reached the post-season. So I’m looking to keep that going.

CS: I never knew every team reached the playoffs. In your opinion what is your best tool in your game?

RM: I’ve been known to show hit ability and have power to hit home runs and drive in a lot of runs each and every year. All that is cool and fun to watch but I think what goes on in a clubhouse and off the field is just as or even more important in determining a players success. My passion for this game is not explainable. I love keeping the team upbeat and having fun. I loved the team we had last year, it makes the games that much more fun to play.

CS: Coming off of that, what is something you want to improve on in your game?

RM: Each and every year I have the same answer for this question. As it is a key factor in baseball, consistency. In my work, game and mental approach it gets better each and every day. It’s something I take a lot of pride in.

CS: Consistency was huge, as how did you find out you won the MidWest League MVP?

RM: I came on the bus one day heading to Fort Wayne and everyone started clapping. Then Huck made the announcement. It was an awesome experience, I plan on having years like that every season. I’m looking forward to this year and I’m more prepared than ever.

CS: Congrats on being the MVP. Has the new regime (Shapiro/Atkins) had an effect on you at all?

RM: Yes, the organization definitely changed a good amount. I’m taking in the change and enjoying the opportunity. As far as me personally, not so much, you still have to play the game and perform. Nothing changes about that, and it never will.

CS: Finally, for Jays fans who don’t know you describe your game?

RM: Smooth and fun to watch. I try to make the game fun no matter the situation. It’s hard enough to play so why make it that much harder. I love to have fun and play at a pace fans enjoy to watch. Of Course, I love to win.

CS: Thank you Ryan for doing this best of luck next season.

RM: Of course man, thank you.