Baseball in Division 1 vs. Junior College for Playing Time
From Ask the Baseball Pro:
Lisa wrote: Hello!
My son is a sophomore player for a Division 1 college. Two days ago (two weeks before school is to start) the coaches told him they have a roster spot for him but he will probably receive very limited playing time due to current players not taking their draft options and injured players coming back.
They have suggested he go JC to get the at bats and field time he deserves. Of course, he would rather play at another D1 school. Is is so late now- any suggestions?
Do D1 schools take transfers this late in the game? Will going down to a JC help or hinder future recruiting?
Great kid,great player- just needs a spot. Any ideas are welcomed!
From the Baseball Pro:
Lisa,
Your son is in an interesting postion. I have always felt that the only way to improve and get better is to play. Obviously his chances of playing in the current situation do not sound that good. So the choice comes down to him and his goals. Does he just want to be part of a team or actually play? Is he deserving of a starting spot? These are questions for you and him to answer.
I went to a JC then left and went to a different JC my sophomore year. Then I went on to a four year program. So transfering is not a bad option you, just have to make sure you transfer into a good situation. Going the JC route will not hinder future recruiting. Every division I coach in the country wants to win, and if your son can help them do that, they will recruit him. As for transfering to a DIV 1 school I believe his current coach would have to give him a release. This is something that you might have to fight for but in this case you should be able to achieve it.
Your Baseball Pro, Steve Holm
Filed By: Jean Bedord | August 9, 2007 |
