The Dugout The Dugout

Known for it's high academics and competitive baseball program, Grinnell College represents a unique opportunity for those players that want to get a terrific liberal arts opportunity coupled with playing the sport they love. Caleb Cline, an assistant coach at the NCAA Division III program, knows this. We discuss the ins and outs of the recruiting process and drill down what Grinnell looks for in it's student-athletes. 

Tyler Smarslok knows a thing or two about college recruiting. It wasn't too long ago that he himself went through the process. During that time he sent over 60 personalized emails to programs of all levels. He only heard back from one, Kean University. That's all he needed though as he is now a Volunteer Assistant Coach for NCAA Division I, Seton Hall. We spoke at length about the recruiting process and what Seton Hall looks for in their recruitment classes. 

Head Coach Mike Leonard knows a thing or two about the NESCAC conference. Considering he's been a head coach for both Bates College and now Middlebury, he's had success at both stops. Mike also knows a thing or two about evaluating talent and creating successful recruiting classes, considering he himself played D1 baseball at UConn and was signed with the Boston Red Sox. On today's episode we talk recruiting and the academic rigors of this top liberal arts college. 

Imagine playing in beautiful Santa Barbara with a competitive NAIA program in Westmont College. Head Coach Rob Ruiz has had great success in the GSAC and has maintained a talented and dedicated assistant coaching staff. Combine the location and program success with strong Christian values and you have a baseball destination that is a strong fit for hardworking players looking to grow both on and off the field. 

It's almost every high school player's dream to play competitive baseball at the collegiate level. While most assume that means at a NCAA Division I program, it's safe to say that playing for a baseball team that consistently makes the postseason would satisfy the desire for competition. Trinity University in San Antonio does just that. Consistent postseason berths and a current preseason ranking of 4th overall in NCAA DIII makes this an attractive spot. Couple the program competitiveness with top tier academics and it's easy to see why Head Coach Tim Scannell fosters strong recruiting classes. 

Latest episode of The Dugout