Meet Chris Munnelly

Chris Munnelly is a 6'2" 170 lb. senior RHP from Forsyth Country Day School. Chris is currently ranked the 180th best prospect nationally by Perfect Game and the #4 prospect in NC by Impact baseball. Chris has signed his NLI to continue his baseball career next year at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down and ask Chris a few questions.

1. What is your earliest memory of playing baseball?
[FONT=&quot]My earliest memory of playing baseball was back when I lived in Richmond, VA. I was about 4 or 5 and I was playing whiffle ball in my grandparent's back yard. My Granddad was throwing to me and I hit a line drive right back at him and broke his glasses. From then on they knew I was going to be a player. [/FONT]

2. When did you start playing travel baseball?
[FONT=&quot]I started playing AAU when I was 11. I played for the NCBA.

3. W[/FONT] [FONT=&quot][/FONT][FONT=&quot]hat do you do the night before a game?
[/FONT] [FONT=&quot]I don't really do anything special the night before a game. I try to get a good night sleep and eat a good dinner, usually just take it easy, especially if I am pitching.

4. Who is your baseball hero?
[/FONT] [FONT=&quot]A hero for me is definitely Derek Jeter. I really respect how he handles himself on and off the field, while winning 4 world series. More importantly, how he has restrained himself from using steroids during this "steroid era."

5. What was your showcase experience like?
[/FONT] [FONT=&quot]Showcase ball has been a great experience. For me I have always tried to play against the best competition possible, it is the only way you can make yourself a better player, and that is what you find in showcase ball. Also, it really opens your eyes to the best competition not only in the state but in the nation. It is amazing how many great players there are out there.

6. What has been your most memorable game?
[/FONT] [FONT=&quot]My most memorable game is probably last high school season versus High Point Wesleyan. They are our conference rivals and one of the better teams in the state, not to mention Wil plays for them, so it is always good to beat them. We were up by one run in the top of the last inning with 2 outs, bases loaded for Hickernell. I was well over my pitch count but I really wanted to finish the game. I guess I threw one pitch too many because HIckernell hit it about 1,000 feet. I will never forget that game and if I do, Hickernell will be quick to remind me about it.

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7. Who has been most fluential in your baseball career?
[FONT=&quot]I think my parents have been most influential in my baseball career. I mean they have paid for all the showcases, tournaments, and hotels along the way, not to mentioned they have supported me throughout everything. Also, Andy Partin. He helped me a ton through the whole college process and put me in front of all the scouts.

8. What is your favorite uniform number and why?
[/FONT] [FONT=&quot]I have always been #2. It was my grandma's favorite number and it's Jeter's number so I guess it has always stuck with me throughout my career. [/FONT]

9.Why did you commit to UNC?
[FONT=&quot]UNC has been my dream school. Ever since I can remember I have been a UNC fan, and now for them to have a top baseball program was just icing on the cake. Also, UNC seemed like they had the best program for developing pitchers and after meeting all the coaches it just felt like I belonged there. [/FONT]

10. What are you future plans in baseball?
[FONT=&quot]It has always been my dream to play Major League Baseball so I will continue to work hard to achieve that goal. I intend to make it to the "show" one day. [/FONT]

11. Are you dating and what does she think about baseball?
[FONT=&quot]I am not dating right now. I'm trying to stay away from as much drama as possible during baseball season so I can focus on my priorities without being distracted.

12. What are your favorite movies?
[/FONT] [FONT=&quot]My favorite movies are The Gladiator, Wedding Crashers, and Taken.

13. What is playing on your IPOD?
[/FONT] [FONT=&quot]I listen to a little bit of everything, anything from rap to country.But before games I like to chill out, so I listen to Dave Matthews or Slightly Stoopid. [/FONT]

Thank you Chris. Good luck to you this year and in the future at UNC.
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Great interview, ncsu. It gave me a chance to get to know Chris a little better. Everyone has heard so much about this young man that it is nice to read a side that many don't know.

I love his advice on girlfriends ....

Good luck, Chris. Everybody on TBR has been following your successes. I just hope you can survive your new baseball coach.