By Brian Graham

Published: Thursday, March 29, 2012

Alain Girman

School: Serra Catholic

Year: Senior

Sport: Baseball

Claim to fame: Mount St. Mary's University recruit Alain Girman pitched five innings and struck out nine in Serra Catholic's 10-0 win over Vincentian Academy in the season opener on March 23. Girman went 9-0 with a 0.63 ERA last season for the PIAA Class A champion Eagles and, with Friday's win, boasts a 25-0 career record. Girman was named to the Louisville Slugger Preseason All-American Team in February.

"He's basically pitched every big game we've played the last two years, including two state championship games and two WPIAL championship games," Coach Brian Dzurenda said. "I can't say enough about him. He's a very hard worker for us."

Although you've committed to Mount St. Mary's, do you still have aspirations of entering Major League Baseball's amateur draft• "A lot of people tell me education is the most important thing," Girman said. "I feel like if I got the chance and get drafted, I would take a hard think about going and chasing the dream. You only get one shot. If I go to college and get injured, I could never do it again."

Regardless of what you do after high school, what do you want to work on to better yourself for the next level• "I'm going to do a lot of weight training, whether it's light weights or jumping rope. I'm going to work with Rick Roberts; he pitched in the majors for some different ball clubs. He's out of Johnstown. He's the owner of ERA Training Academy. He's helped make my mechanics really sound."

What is the ultimate goal this year• "The ultimate goal is to get another championship, whether it's a WPIAL championship or state championship."

What's your best pitch• "I would say my sinking fastball. I throw it 87 to 89, but it tails in on left-handed batters."

Who's been the biggest influence on your baseball career• "I'd have to say my dad. I didn't play T-ball. I started straight at coach-pitch. Me, my brother and dad were out there on the field taking batting practice a couple days a week."

Is there a major leaguer you try to emulate• "I like (N.Y. Mets pitcher) Johan Santana a lot. When I was throwing my change-up good, he influenced me, because he's a smaller lefty."

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