Woodridge Ball Players turning some heads.

[BaseballRepresent]

Woodridge's senior class is absolutely loaded this year. In terms of talent is lead by Nick Jones, who has a shot of breaking the state record in career hits. He surpassed someone we all know and love, Ken Griffey Jr. His supporting cast include arguably the best catcher in ohio in Mike Debord, hard-throwers Jordan Wilhite and Dave Krusinski, and Joe Lewandowski. Watch out.

[earholem]

Woodridge's senior class is absolutely loaded this year. In terms of talent is lead by Nick Jones, who has a shot of breaking the state record in career hits. He surpassed someone we all know and love, Ken Griffey Jr. His supporting cast include arguably the best catcher in ohio in Mike Debord, hard-throwers Jordan Wilhite and Dave Krusinski, and Joe Lewandowski. Watch out.

These young men have been turning heads since thet were 9. I'm sure this will continue for years to come. It's a shame these same guys that made All State honors last year are not getting more press.
If they lead by example, then 2008 is the year for Woodridge in baseball

[SUMUMP]

These young men have been turning heads since thet were 9. I'm sure this will continue for years to come. It's a shame these same guys that made All State honors last year are not getting more press.
If they lead by example, then 2008 is the year for Woodridge in baseball

Those in the know know how talented these guys are. They have the respect of their peers. Don't worry about the press, just keep doing what you do.

[BdawgsBB22]

Just let it go, I'm apart of the team, last year we were ranked 2nd in the state and no one is going to give us any credit for it that just makes the team want to go out there and work even harder this year, to get somewhere where we can get respect.

[pnthrz4life]

[QUOTE=BaseballRepresent;2884244]His supporting cast include arguably the best catcher in ohio in Mike Debord, QUOTE]

That is an awfully big complement to DeBord. I don't know if I would go that far as saying the best in the state. He is a very good catcher and probably top 5 in his region, but I wouldn't say th ebest in the state.

[Voice-of-Reason]

Where is Woodbridge?

[BaseballRepresent]

Woodridge is located in peninsula, ohio, about 1 mile from Walsh Jesuit and CVCA.

[BaseballRepresent]

and debord consistently has outshown them on the field. he has one of the best bats and blocking skills i have seen, and i've seen some pretty d*** good ones. His 2nd-team selection was an insult to his athletic ability. he deserved no less than a first-team all-ohio selection.

[CVCAroyals]

Does anyone know if this is true or not?? I have heard that Brandon Cargnel who is a talented junior for woodridge has transfered to Coventry? Any truth behind this?

[BaseballRepresent]

It's true. Cargnel has transferred to Coventry where hopefully he will become a varsity member for the first time in his carreer. He has potential to help out their program.

[CVCAroyals]

Do you have idea why he transfered to Coventry? I have seen him play he is a solid player. Has a nice big frame. Lefty pitcher and first baseman who is a switch hitter. Coventry is getting a fine player

[longhorn61]

It was pretty much just a numbers game at Woodridge, about 6 or 7 of their JV players would be starting Varsity at other schools. But we're excited to have Chris on the Ohio Longhorns this year. (Unnecessary plug: www.eteamz.com/ohiolonghorns) He will be a great contribution to our team.

[BENSPAPA8]

Woodridge's senior class is absolutely loaded this year. In terms of talent is lead by Nick Jones, who has a shot of breaking the state record in career hits. He surpassed someone we all know and love, Ken Griffey Jr. His supporting cast include arguably the best catcher in ohio in Mike Debord, hard-throwers Jordan Wilhite and Dave Krusinski, and Joe Lewandowski. Watch out.

Most Hits, Career (minimum 150)

1 200 Dan Ruff, Lancaster Fairfield Union (1984-1987)
2 191 Jacob Frank, West Salem Northwestern (1998-2001)
3 175 Dave Manderine, Canton Central Catholic (1985-1988)
4 172 Gene Cattane, St. Clairsville (1974-1977), Mike Breyman, Attica Seneca East (1997-2000), Eric Earnhart, Urbana (2000-2003)

7 171 Mark Brunswick, Coldwater (1981-1984)
8 165 Rick Heisler, Egderton
9 161 Clint McKoon, Fairport Harbor Harding (1989-1992)

10 158 Dan Haegele, Westerville North (1994-1997), Zach Byers, Columbus Bishop Hartley (2004-2007)

12 155 Justin Richards, Richmond Edison (2002-2003)

13 152 Jeff Hendershott,Wellston (1987-1990), Blake St. Clair, Bellefontaine (1994-1997)

15 150 Dave Minarcin, Northwood (1984-1987), Christian Snavely, Defiance (1997-2000)

[BaseballRepresent]

i said he has a [I]shot[I] benspapa, he's at 138 or something close, so he'll need 63 hits. After this season he'll probably be top ten.

[BENSPAPA8]

138 hits in 3 VARSITY seasons is fantastic, and I hope he does it.

[BaseballRepresent]

Many of use weren't sure how far off nick was, but he does have quite a climb. I doubt he breaks it, but he'll probably be top ten. he'll have to get 45 hits or so, and he's been averaging something like 43-44 hits a year.

[theface18]

all i no is that field would hand woodridge there lunch. id like to see that kid hit off of umbright

[DennyCrane]

all i no is that field would hand woodridge there lunch. id like to see that kid hit off of umbright

First, try paying attention in Language Arts class.

Second, I have seen both teams play and Field is VERY good, but this Woodridge team is special. I do not support either team but, Field is probably the top team in the Metro and the overall competition is better in the metro. Woodridge is the best in the county division and should make a run toward state in D3. If Field and Woodridge did play this year that would be some outstanding baseball. I believe Woodridge would be favored in any game and would win a 5-3 or 3-2 type ballgame.

As for the county the only teams that will even challenge Woodridge this year I believe will be Windham (only when Apthorpe is on the mound), Rootstown (only when Luckie is on the mound), Garfield (only when Colin is on the mound) and I believe Waterloo will be their biggest surprise challenge this year. They have seniors and juniors that have been playing varsity for 3 years. Experience there with good talent in Frame, Wartluft, McBroom, Adelman and Hamiltion.

[tapNeo]

Woodridge has some outstanding baseball players. I am looking forward to seeing a few of their games this season. Hopefully, they will have a little luck on their side this season and make it out of their region. As we all know, you not only need talent, but also a little lady luck to make it down to Columbus. Good Luck and have a great season.

[longhorn61]

Youngstown Ursuline and Canton Central Catholic will be two tough road blocks to get through to get to Columbus. Hopefully with a little help, Woodridge will just have to face one or neither of them. These are both private schools who get to pick out the creme de la creme of baseball players in their area. They don't have Walsh Jesuit, SVSM, and two other big time D1 programs in their backyard.

[theface18]

denny crane i do agree that the metro is better by far. the county league has scrub teams such as mogadore and east canton. Field is returning 7 letterman. i truthfully believe that nobody in either league can play with them. i think they can go undeafeted easily as long as they all play to their potential

[falcon5er]

I have to agree with the face!( I dont know why your name is the face lol ) Being a proud member of the falcons i would have to say we would have a good chance of knocking off someone like Woodrige.

[GRIP&RIP]

What Grade Is Cargnel In? I Know Some Coventry Players And They Havent Mentioned Him

[BaseballRepresent]

cargnel's a junior.

[BaseballRepresent]

Field return's 7 lettermen? Woodridge returns 12, 9 being seniors, 4 of them have been on varsity since freshmen year. Woodridge has three all-ohio selections, of those two pitchers and one catcher. I strongly doubt Field could handle woodridge's pitching. Granted umbright is good, but woodridge's staff is the best in the portage trail conference. Who else does Field have? Umbright is the only one mentioned when Field's staff is discussed. With Woodridge, there's four. Both sides. Ask Ravenna. Last year they were beat by a freshmen who went on to a 5-0 record his first varsity season. Woodridge, as a team, batted .390 last season. Woodridge has won 25 games the past two seasons and returns the best overall team in their history to the field led by nine experienced seniors that will most likely sweep the County. I also know that teams like Windham, Streetsboro, Rootstown and even Waterloo are capable of beating any team in the metro, let alone Woodridge. I propose a Portage Trail Championship where the Winners of both leagues play to see who truly is the best of the Portage Trail Conference. The only way that this question will be settled.

[BaseballRepresent]

all i no is that field would hand woodridge there lunch. id like to see that kid hit off of umbright

Ha. Ha.:blush: When '08 graduates. Maybe I'd agree with that.

[Triple Crown]

138 hits in 3 VARSITY seasons is fantastic, and I hope he does it.

Nick Jones has 130 Career Hits. With a good year, he will more than likely finish 3rd All-Time in Hits. Not bad for a career!
On the college level, he will more than likely spend most of his time on the mound due to the high deman for quality lefties!

[theface18]

sooo if u have only heard of umbright how did field win the league last year. Boggs, mcautchen yazecko, they are all retuning this year and they will hand woodridge there lunch like i said before. plus fields class of 09,is better than any one elses around the county and field will threepeat after next year

[BaseballRepresent]

sooo if u have only heard of umbright how did field win the league last year. Boggs, mcautchen yazecko, they are all retuning this year and they will hand woodridge there lunch like i said before. plus fields class of 09,is better than any one elses around the county and field will threepeat after next year

Interesting. However, Woodridge will three-peat when this season is over. This handing Woodridge their lunch thing is quite humorous considering their talent level. If Field were to play Woodridge in a best-of-three series, i would bet money woodridge will sweep. Anyone of their aces is better than umbright, even the sophomore. Yazecko's a good hitter, but that's about it. Face, your team's good, kid, real good. But as long as Woodridge's class of '08 for baseball is around, you'll always be second best.

[theface18]

first off woodridge doesnt play anyone. so congratulation on winning that sorry league. Who do they play?? Mogadore, Waterloo, Rootstown, WIndam. Try playing kent Roosevelt or Ravenna or even norton. And im pretty sure you wouldnt sweep them, What would Woodridge have done against the powerful walsh team. Field held them to only 2 runs which came in the last inning and they had the game and lost because of some bad calls made by poor umps.

[DennyCrane]

sooo if u have only heard of umbright how did field win the league last year. Boggs, mcautchen yazecko, they are all retuning this year and they will hand woodridge there lunch like i said before. plus fields class of 09,is better than any one elses around the county and field will threepeat after next year

Obvisously you do not know much about baseball to say Field would hand Woodridge their lunch. Field is an excellent team and they are good because they play fundamentally sound baseball and do have quality players and coaching. Woodridge is also an excellent team who does things well, but Woodridge has some D1 players on their roster and the overall talent is a little bit better.

Like I have said before, I do not support either school and I saw both teams play last year. It would be a great match-up, but Woodridge would be favored.

[Triple Crown]

face,
To say Woodridge doesn't play anyone is an ignorant statement. Last year alone Woodridge BEAT DI Twinsburg twice, DII Sweet Sixteen Medina Highland, DII Tallmadge, DIII CVCA and one of the top 2 teams in the Youngstown area, Cardinal Mooney in a great game. That doesn't include many of the other quality league teams like Windham(DIV state power) twice in blowouts and Garrettsville twice. And Ravenna and Crestwood in a blowout!
This year the Dogs play perhaps the toughest schedule in the area with Tallmadge, Walsh, Cuy. Falls, Akron Hoban, Firestone, Stow, Twinsburg(DH), Aurora(DH) and CVCA along with the usual tough conference foes twice.

I believe this year that Woodridge would have to be favored in any game they play cause pitching depth. But, obviously, due to this brutal non-league schedule, they will lose some games this year. It will be very tough for Woodridge to duplicate the 27-3 team of last year and the 25-6 of 2006.

As for who would win between Woodridge and Field, who knows. Anything can happen in the game of baseball. The best team doesn't always win. I have seen Umbright pitch, along with all of Woodridge's top pitchers in high school or Summer ball. Umbright would be the #3 or #4 on Woodridge's staff.

[longhorn61]

In the past five years, there has been at least one team from the current PTC County to advance deep in the state playoffs (Rootstown, Woodridge, Windham) So don't discredit these schools because of the league their in, it's not their fault they are D3/D4 size. Of course the strength of the county divison is weaker than Metro because the Metro has D1 and D2 schools!The schools are bigger and they have more selection. I didn't know that this had to be explained. What Woodridge has done against non-conference is impressive.

By the way, I like the fact that Field is bickering about the competition in their new league, when they wanted to get out of the PCL for so long.

[falcon5er]

Interesting. However, Woodridge will three-peat when this season is over. This handing Woodridge their lunch thing is quite humorous considering their talent level. If Field were to play Woodridge in a best-of-three series, i would bet money woodridge will sweep. Anyone of their aces is better than umbright, even the sophomore. Yazecko's a good hitter, but that's about it. Face, your team's good, kid, real good. But as long as Woodridge's class of '08 for baseball is around, you'll always be second best.

I gurantee Umbright is just as or better then woodriges three aces! Umbright has Kent State seriously looking at him! He is really talented and you obvisously didnt hear about the game he pitched against Wlash!

[bigdawg33]

Obvisously you do not know much about baseball to say Field would hand Woodridge their lunch. Field is an excellent team and they are good because they play fundamentally sound baseball and do have quality players and coaching. Woodridge is also an excellent team who does things well, but Woodridge has some D1 players on their roster and the overall talent is a little bit better.

Like I have said before, I do not support either school and I saw both teams play last year. It would be a great match-up, but Woodridge would be favored.
Who are Woodridges D1 players? I have not heard of anyone signing. It is not on Buckeye Scout, and they have no players listed in the top 70 of he state on Buckeye Scout list. I know some of them went to the showcase. Did I miss something?

[BaseballRepresent]

first off woodridge doesnt play anyone. so congratulation on winning that sorry league. Who do they play?? Mogadore, Waterloo, Rootstown, WIndam. Try playing kent Roosevelt or Ravenna or even norton. And im pretty sure you wouldnt sweep them, What would Woodridge have done against the powerful walsh team. Field held them to only 2 runs which came in the last inning and they had the game and lost because of some bad calls made by poor umps.

Woodridge beat Ravenna 9-0 last season. And Ravenna "cancelled" the second game. Oh, and the sophomore stud i've been bragging about shut them out as a frosh. Threw a 4 hitter. :hello:

[BaseballRepresent]

I gurantee Umbright is just as or better then woodriges three aces! Umbright has Kent State seriously looking at him! He is really talented and you obvisously didnt hear about the game he pitched against Wlash!

Son, we all read about it in the paper. Umbright pitched his --- off. Walsh had the better day. Happened to Woodridge last year in two of their three losses. The Rootstown loss was a complete fluke.

[BaseballRepresent]

Who are Woodridges D1 players? I have not heard of anyone signing. It is not on Buckeye Scout, and they have no players listed in the top 70 of he state on Buckeye Scout list. I know some of them went to the showcase. Did I miss something?

Woodridge's DI athletes are mostly members of the Ohio Hurricanes summer team based in Akron, Ohio. Their core five: Debord, Jones, Krusinski, Lewandowski, and Wilhite, are the players that could play at the Division I level. Jones has been scouted fairly heavily by DI's such as west virgina, ohio, miami of florida has shown interest, and now i understand he may join connor burns from hoban down at Savannah College in Georgia. Krusinski, I believe, just signed with Walsh University, D II NAIA. Lewandowski is supposedly heading to Ohio Dominican, D II NCAA i believe please correct if i am wrong. As for Debord and Wilhite, Debord is favoring Wooster D III NCAA, and Wilhite is leaning towards the D III route, but is completely undecided where he wants to play.

He's only a sophomore(i know, here i go again) but Westren will develop into a division I athlete pending he continues his amazing climb. Last year he was around 73-74, and has spiked to 79-80 preseason as of NOW! Yes it's early for him as his sophomore campaign hasn't even begun, but I'm telling you he's one to watch.

To answer the Buckeye Scout Question, I think Jones, Krusinski, Debord, and Wilhite did not attend the showcase. Lewandowski might have, but i'm not sure. Most likely they were in a tournament during the buckeye scout.

[BaseballRepresent]

also, if the field supporters who have posted on this thread think field is better simply because of being a division higher, please for sanity's sake readjust your thinking because that mentality is disproven every spring in Ohio High School baseball.

[BaseballRepresent]

, What would Woodridge have done against the powerful walsh team.

I don't usually deal with hypotheticals, but hypothetically speaking, given walsh the best game of the year most likely.

[bigdawg33]

Woodridge's DI athletes are mostly members of the Ohio Hurricanes summer team based in Akron, Ohio. Their core five: Debord, Jones, Krusinski, Lewandowski, and Wilhite, are the players that could play at the Division I level. Jones has been scouted fairly heavily by DI's such as west virgina, ohio, miami of florida has shown interest, and now i understand he may join connor burns from hoban down at Savannah College in Georgia. Krusinski, I believe, just signed with Walsh University, D II NAIA. Lewandowski is supposedly heading to Ohio Dominican, D II NCAA i believe please correct if i am wrong. As for Debord and Wilhite, Debord is favoring Wooster D III NCAA, and Wilhite is leaning towards the D III route, but is completely undecided where he wants to play.

To answer the Buckeye Scout Question, I think Jones, Krusinski, Debord, and Wilhite did not attend the showcase. Lewandowski might have, but i'm not sure. Most likely they were in a tournament during the buckeye scout.

Interesting, being scouted heavily by D1 and actually getting offers is a very different situation. Lots of players are scouted, especially teams with such a winning record and all state players. But the question is would these D3 players be all state players if they played in D1 ? Accolades like that should have gotten these guys lots of looks by college scouts. You schedule may be tough but have you played the state powerhouses like Xavier, Moeller, Lakota West,, Oregan Trails, Madison, Coffman, Strongsville, ST.ED's. or Ignatius. I have been reading your thread and you talk big, but if they are as good as you say they would be listed on Buckeye scout and the division one offers would be pouring in. Fisher who runs buckeye scout, scouts extensively in Ohio. Are there other Hurricanes on the list? I have heard they were a good team. They traveled extensively didn't they: Did they get on front of lots of coaches at big tourneys? ALso,you did not have to be at the Buckeye showcase to be ranked. About 1/2 of the top 20 were not, some because they were already signed by D1 schools.

Savanah College, Walsh. and OD are all NAIA, Wooster is one of the best D3 programs in the state... congrats to these gentlemen....but saying they are D1 when they are not is really not accurate. NOt to say they will not have great college careers and get educations at fine schools, but if they had D1 offers I bet they would be playing D1.

[BaseballRepresent]

mcmillen, burns, conway, lofton, and brenner, were at one point members of the Ohio Hurricanes at one point in the past two years. Brenner and Lofton currently still are members. And yes these players could play division 1 baseball. Perhaps they just don't feel like sitting for two years and not play until their junior year of college, that's why they choose the smaller school route. And don't make d 1 ball sound so royal. Yes, it's very prestigious, but d II, d III and NAIA as well as juco all have great baseball programs and all have sent players to the majors. I guarantee you woodridge could contend with any team at any division in Ohio. The boys played against division 1 recruits and draft picks from all over the state of ohio as well as the country last summer in tournaments and finished the summer with a 42-14 record. Not to shabby for a summer team with a bunch of boys from the greater akron area. My point? Their good ball players. To say one team would hand them their lunch is ridiculous considering how hard they play the game.

Also you're confusing talking big with defending a good program against ignorance of that program. I'm an excited observer of good baseball players who are outstanding individuals day in and day out and put in as much work or more than those who are signing with d 1 colleges. Many of those names mentioned have played against the hurricanes and will admit the players on the team who are affiliated with woodridge should never be underestimated and their potential respected.

[BaseballRepresent]

also, don't base d I assumptions on buckeye scout. Yes, it's an accredited scouting program, but they aren't perfect. They overlook many players every year for 6'5 right handers throwing 94 and left-handed hitting first basemen with homerun swings. I'm not in any way saying the woodridge players have been shafted. Jones has been getting scouted by D I NCAA Colleges. Didn't you see my post? I specifically mention Ohio, West Virginia, and Miami of Florida as well as Savannah College- D I NAIA.

[Triple Crown]

This is a forum built on opinions, some well-researched, some not. I have been following local high school and summer programs for many years and realize the difference between DI and DIII college players is very small. Only 6% of high schoolers go on to play college ball at any level, so all are very talented. The select few that get the opportunity to play in college make their decisions of where and at what level for many different reasons. Most times, it's based on projected playing time and how soon.
Not mentioning any names, but some that choose the DI route make a terrible decision and soon regret it. Many don't make it through the first season and return home crushed.
I would assume that Woodridge's talented Senior class and their parents will make the best decision for each individual situation and hope they make the right choice.
From my observations and knowing many, many past DI signees who had success in college, 3 of the 5 from Woodridge you speak of have definite DI ability, 1 has borderline DI ability(and therefore should go the DII/III route) and 1 has the talent to excel at DII or good DIII programs. That's pretty impressive for a public school program to have 5 Seniors with that much talent, so I agree they will probably have a great year.
That being said, Woodridge has two huge holes to fill at SS and 2B. Those are not good positions to have big question marks. If they can't fill those 2 spots, it will hurt them eventually because their great pitching staff can only take them so far.
As far as the Buckeye Scout and other evaluation polls goes, it's subjective. I have seen many on the top 70 so far who are above average players, but far from great. I have also seen 4 so far, and counting, who were backups on their prestigious travel teams to individuals who are not even on Mr. Fisher's list. If they were better than the ones not on the list, they would have started. There is no perfect system to evaluate Ohio's best and many get left off and some make it that don't deserve it. But that's life!

[Theblackdevil12]

Lewandowski has signed with ODU, Kruz has signed with Walsh U.

Not jumping off the subject or anything but i've heard one of Woodridge's MIF is getting surgey. Painter... correct if wrong, I've heard about 4 stories to this, if the team has a plan for the spot that needs filled, if hes Going to be returning to the field this season, or if this is just not true. Cause i went out to a few games last year the kid seems as if he's got his deffense down, could work on hitting i'm sure it'll come the kid seems to understand the game, he was starting as a sophomore on a very talented team. :shrug:

[BaseballRepresent]

This is a forum built on opinions, some well-researched, some not. I have been following local high school and summer programs for many years and realize the difference between DI and DIII college players is very small. Only 6% of high schoolers go on to play college ball at any level, so all are very talented. The select few that get the opportunity to play in college make their decisions of where and at what level for many different reasons. Most times, it's based on projected playing time and how soon.
Not mentioning any names, but some that choose the DI route make a terrible decision and soon regret it. Many don't make it through the first season and return home crushed.
I would assume that Woodridge's talented Senior class and their parents will make the best decision for each individual situation and hope they make the right choice.
From my observations and knowing many, many past DI signees who had success in college, 3 of the 5 from Woodridge you speak of have definite DI ability, 1 has borderline DI ability(and therefore should go the DII/III route) and 1 has the talent to excel at DII or good DIII programs. That's pretty impressive for a public school program to have 5 Seniors with that much talent, so I agree they will probably have a great year.
That being said, Woodridge has two huge holes to fill at SS and 2B. Those are not good positions to have big question marks. If they can't fill those 2 spots, it will hurt them eventually because their great pitching staff can only take them so far.
As far as the Buckeye Scout and other evaluation polls goes, it's subjective. I have seen many on the top 70 so far who are above average players, but far from great. I have also seen 4 so far, and counting, who were backups on their prestigious travel teams to individuals who are not even on Mr. Fisher's list. If they were better than the ones not on the list, they would have started. There is no perfect system to evaluate Ohio's best and many get left off and some make it that don't deserve it. But that's life!


Triple Crown, your views reflect mine completely. I applaud this post. very insightful.

[BaseballRepresent]

Lewandowski has signed with ODU, Kruz has signed with Walsh U.

Not jumping off the subject or anything but i've heard one of Woodridge's MIF is getting surgey. Painter... correct if wrong, I've heard about 4 stories to this, if the team has a plan for the spot that needs filled, if hes Going to be returning to the field this season, or if this is just not true. Cause i went out to a few games last year the kid seems as if he's got his deffense down, could work on hitting i'm sure it'll come the kid seems to understand the game, he was starting as a sophomore on a very talented team. :shrug:

this is true. Sometime in lat february he will have surgery. we forsee a mid-season return. his defense is above average. hitting leaves some room for major improvement but he's definitely got the talent. Very unfortunate for Joe Painter i looked forward to watching him play this spring.

Also, another point triple crown made. the middle infield is definitely the two holes this year, and left field is up in the air as well. however, i believe left field will be decided relatively quickly as there are a couple players that have shown tremendous strides in pre-season open gyms in hitting and arm strength. Middle infield for woodridge will simply be determined on who wants it the most for there are roughly 6 or 7 underclassmen as well as a couple seniors vying for those two spots. We aren't complaining too much though, this healthy competition can only result in hard work and discipline for those who finally earn the spot. Should be a good year for sure. I just wish painter was hundo percentile for the beginning of the season.

[DennyCrane]

Woodridge's DI athletes are mostly members of the Ohio Hurricanes summer team based in Akron, Ohio. Their core five: Debord, Jones, Krusinski, Lewandowski, and Wilhite, are the players that could play at the Division I level. Jones has been scouted fairly heavily by DI's such as west virgina, ohio, miami of florida has shown interest, and now i understand he may join connor burns from hoban down at Savannah College in Georgia. Krusinski, I believe, just signed with Walsh University, D II NAIA. Lewandowski is supposedly heading to Ohio Dominican, D II NCAA i believe please correct if i am wrong. As for Debord and Wilhite, Debord is favoring Wooster D III NCAA, and Wilhite is leaning towards the D III route, but is completely undecided where he wants to play.

That is great for those guys to play at the next level and I am sure they have done their homework for these colleges. The best example I have is a kid I coached years back that was being looked at and recruited by two D1 schools. Well the kid did a lot of research on these schools and decided to go to D3 Marietta where he wound up with a ring. He wanted to get a good education, play ball for four years and play for a national championship. Those three things would not happen at the D1 schools. He made the right choice for himself.

[Triple Crown]

That is great for those guys to play at the next level and I am sure they have done their homework for these colleges. The best example I have is a kid I coached years back that was being looked at and recruited by two D1 schools. Well the kid did a lot of research on these schools and decided to go to D3 Marietta where he wound up with a ring. He wanted to get a good education, play ball for four years and play for a national championship. Those three things would not happen at the D1 schools. He made the right choice for himself.

Kudos to that young man and his family in making a great decision.
By the way, Marietta is no slouch in baseball. They are one of the top baseball programs in Ohio each year, regardless of division. Marietta and Wooster(DIII) can compete with all the big boys in Ohio(DI, II's) and more than hold their own.

[bigdawg33]

[QUOTE=DennyCrane;2940863]That is great for those guys to play at the next level and I am sure they have done their homework for these colleges. The best example I have is a kid I coached years back that was being looked at and recruited by two D1 schools.

Again being recruited and getting genuine offers is very different. :wallbang: Marrietta is great baseball and anyone who plays there is a very good player. I just have trouble believing that any of the Woodridge players who have played for the Ohio Hurricanes would pass up a division 1 opportunity if they had the offers :shrug: Other canes took offers, and I think many of the the woodridge kids had all state honors... Did they actually get any offers? They must have been scouted extensively, I know Woodridge was covered a lot statewide in the paper last year...I guess I would be surprised to hear the turned down ACTUAL offers ... People turn to other reasons...sitting on the bench, academics etc... when the offers don't come in like they expected/hoped. This is like the Buckeye Scout...those on the list love it.... those not on it think it is not accurate.....( of course it is somewhere in the middle). Following your thread and baseball from a distance, the Woodridge boy have had great exposure, as well as the Ohio Hurricanes have played in national tournaments....so they can not claim to be missed or unknown....is it possible that they may have been recruited to D1 but never got any offers because they are not quite at that level.....the thread started like this.......
Woodridge's senior class is absolutely loaded this year. In terms of talent is lead by Nick Jones, who has a shot of breaking the state record in career hits. He surpassed someone we all know and love, Ken Griffey Jr. His supporting cast include arguably the best catcher in ohio in Mike Debord, hard-throwers Jordan Wilhite and Dave Krusinski, and Joe Lewandowski. Watch out.

And later the same person claims to have all these D1 players on the team...actually there are none, and if Jones who is seeing D3 pitchers is going to break the record that is amazing but what would he be if he faced top pitching in the state his HS carreer?....so he did as a hurricane....but no D1 offers...And if Deboard was the best catcher in the State why is he not going to OSU or another D1 school.....not to say that Wooster is not an awesome place to play.....

I wish this team well this season, and expect them to do well in the race for the D3 title..... but maybe their fans and or players need to tone it down a bit and get back to reality.
Those are big words by a fan or perhaps a player which don't match reality

[earholem]

[QUOTE=DennyCrane;2940863]That is great for those guys to play at the next level and I am sure they have done their homework for these colleges. The best example I have is a kid I coached years back that was being looked at and recruited by two D1 schools.

Again being recruited and getting genuine offers is very different. :wallbang: Marrietta is great baseball and anyone who plays there is a very good player. I just have trouble believing that any of the Woodridge players who have played for the Ohio Hurricanes would pass up a division 1 opportunity if they had the offers :shrug: Other canes took offers, and I think many of the the woodridge kids had all state honors... Did they actually get any offers? They must have been scouted extensively, I know Woodridge was covered a lot statewide in the paper last year...I guess I would be surprised to hear the turned down ACTUAL offers ... People turn to other reasons...sitting on the bench, academics etc... when the offers don't come in like they expected/hoped. This is like the Buckeye Scout...those on the list love it.... those not on it think it is not accurate.....( of course it is somewhere in the middle). Following your thread and baseball from a distance, the Woodridge boy have had great exposure, as well as the Ohio Hurricanes have played in national tournaments....so they can not claim to be missed or unknown....is it possible that they may have been recruited to D1 but never got any offers because they are not quite at that level.....the thread started like this.......
Woodridge's senior class is absolutely loaded this year. In terms of talent is lead by Nick Jones, who has a shot of breaking the state record in career hits. He surpassed someone we all know and love, Ken Griffey Jr. His supporting cast include arguably the best catcher in ohio in Mike Debord, hard-throwers Jordan Wilhite and Dave Krusinski, and Joe Lewandowski. Watch out.

And later the same person claims to have all these D1 players on the team...actually there are none, and if Jones who is seeing D3 pitchers is going to break the record that is amazing but what would he be if he faced top pitching in the state his HS carreer?....so he did as a hurricane....but no D1 offers...And if Deboard was the best catcher in the State why is he not going to OSU or another D1 school.....not to say that Wooster is not an awesome place to play.....

I wish this team well this season, and expect them to do well in the race for the D3 title..... but maybe their fans and or players need to tone it down a bit and get back to reality.
Those are big words by a fan or perhaps a player which don't match reality

These guys have produced at all levels for years.Not much seperation from
D1,D2 and D3 in high schools.Most programs have a above average #1 & 2 pitchers.Hits, average and stats still have to be performed by an individual.

The above players have seen the best teams not only in the state but in the country during the summer.

Talk to most accomplished hitters and they will tell you they would rather face higher velocity arm then low 70's guy with a duece.

I'm sure they won't be the first guys to turn down D1 college to go to college.
Those who have opportunity to play college ball and succeed and finish college are blessed.

Believe that college ball is pretty equal.Not much difference between levels.
I don't see anyone signing with Texas, Stanford, or any of the true baseball powerhouse schools.If anyone from this area is a top producer in college, they will be found by pro scouts no mater where they are or size of program.
Bottom line is playing ball in college is huge and we need to stop bashing guys for where they go.

Not only did these guys have to study to keep grades up but gave up many things and made many sacrafices to reach this level.

[bigdawg33]

I am not denying that these are very good baseball players/kids etc. Or the fact they have worked hard. Just concerned about the D1 claims and best in the state claims they are making...they have had more exposure than many of the other players in the state but no D1 offers (yet). So just trying to tame some of the overflowing accolades.


What are the actual number of D2, D3, and NAIA players who get drafted compared to D1?

Is this the common statement (there is little difference between the divisions) of people who did not get D1 offers?

Why are there 3 divisions if there is little difference? Would D1 coaches and Pro scouts agree with this statement? (Rather than agree that they can find a small percentage of draftees in these lower divisions)

Can you deny that any kid who plays at the level of these Woodridge players does not dream of playing D1?

What if these players are recruited in June and July by a D1 school....will they tell them I much rather play at my NAIA D2,D3, because the baseball opportunity is only a little different?

Did any of them turn down (or get D1) offers?

Were they surprised they did not get D1 offers with all their accolades?

If all of them had gotten D1 offers would they be singing the same tune about there being little difference between the divisions?

Is it possible that the "little difference" is what the D1 coaches and proscouts are looking for?




I know these boys have worked hard in the classroom and on the field, but so have the D1 recruits... so that is not much of an argument.

I also believe that players pick colleges for many reasons, hopefully education being the number one. So I don't need that response. Just wondering if one of those players would have picked another school if a less academic baseball power would have recruited them versus a strong academic D2 or D3 offered them?

Just some food for thought...hoping from some honesty.

[BaseballRepresent]

whether or not you have recieved offers from a d I school or not doesn't mean you aren't capable of playing division I ball. Sir, how do you know that they haven't recieved letters in the mail offering showcases, camps, invites to their respective athletic facilities to show what they can do? I know for a fact that Perfect Game, an exceptional and nationally known scouting service in the Nation, has mailed debord, jones, and wilhite letters asking them to attend showcases. Now, as far as i know, they haven't. Why? other priorities perhaps? School is in session? Don't feel like spending 3,000 to go to a weekend showcase in the middle of september?

Now, do the Ohio States or the Miami of Florida's have to actually OFFER a high school player money to be considered division I material? I'm simply applauding these boy's talents and promoting a team that deserves promotion because, in fact, they weren't given much notice until they started beating the tallmadges, st. v's, twinsburgs, windhams, medina highland and had youngstown ursiline going "uh-oh" until their bats came alive in the third inning of the regional semi-final last year. Wilhite threw very well that game. Yes, he gave up 5 runs, three earned, but does everyone know he missed two days of school prior to that game with the stomach flu? Do they know he pitched fairly dehydrated because he was still riddled with flu? Do they know that when krusinski came in, he was throwing with a sore arm? Now this doesn't have anything to do with D I potential, but my point is they work their ----- off and get reamed by people who are perhaps jealous or maybe they just don't like seeing people succeed that they "think" or "percieve" as not being worth much, or yell at "over-zealous fans" on a high-school sports thread for gloryfying players.

Nobody on here is gloryfying or mistaking players for d I talent. Why in the world would i say that they have d I potential if they don't? How many others have supported my statements? What will it take for people like you, bigdawg, to understand we are merely excited about a group of kids who have the opportunity to make waves in the state tournament? Your statements are full of merit and are credible when your talking about what colleges and pros will do when it comes to scouting. However, i think your overlooking the fact that we, especially myself, are simply explaining that we feel, based on past experience in watching these boys play, believe that they could compete at the Division I level. However, that decision obviously remains with the division I coaches who scout and recruit kids. But does the fact that these boys don't receive offers from a d I school mean they can't play d I level? I don't think so.

Also, nobody on here is bashing buckeye scout. I truly believe it's a scouting service with merit. just because our woodridge boys aren't on the list is of no consequence to me for i'm not one of them or their family members. i just appreciate great talent when i see it. You can't argue that. I watch everyone in my respective area i can. If you've read my posts on other threads, i promote other players i've seen that their fans have promoted on this website.

And to the Field Fans who've posted on here. I hope in no way i've come across in doubting your teams ability. Far from it. I just strongly and sincerely doubt the whole "handing woodridge it's lunch thing."

Besides, all of what i've said are simply my opinions. But of course, what are one man's opinions compared to others? Simply that: opinions. It's up to the readers of my threads discretion whether they agree or not.

[bigdawg33]

[QUOTE=? I know for a fact that Perfect Game, an exceptional and nationally known scouting service in the Nation, has mailed debord, jones, and wilhite letters asking them to attend showcases.


and 1000's of others players to get enough players to make a profit....


Now, do the Ohio States or the Miami of Florida's have to actually OFFER a high school player money to be considered division I material?

Yes most of the time

Wilhite threw very well that game. Yes, he gave up 5 runs, three earned, but does everyone know he missed two days of school prior to that game with the stomach flu? Do they know he pitched fairly dehydrated because he was still riddled with flu? Do they know that when krusinski came in, he was throwing with a sore arm?


So which one are you? Wilhite or Krusinski?

"over-zealous fans" on a high-school sports thread for gloryfying players.

maybe overzealous players lookimg for attention?

You are absolutely right, you are entitled to your opinion....I just have a hunch you are a player on this team....and not an interested nonbiased adult...of course that is my opinion.

Peace out and good luck.

[BENSPAPA8]

Most people who know about college baseball recruiting will tell you this.

"until the head coach calls you himself, you are not being recruited yet"

[Triple Crown]

(Quote) Now, do the Ohio States or the Miami of Florida's have to actually OFFER a high school player money to be considered division I material?

Yes most of the time


Big Dawg,
You better do a little more research before you make statements like that!
DI schools, if fully funded(and most in Ohio aren't), have 11.7 scholarships to divide up to recruits. Most of this athletic scholarship money goes to the key pitchers and the top 2 catchers. Very little is left to be chopped up for position players. There are a few exceptions to this from time to time, depending on the potential impact of the position player.

What does this all mean? It means that usually 1/4 to 1/3 of DI schools rosters are littered with players who are walk-ons, preferred walk-ons, or red-shirt players.(No money offered because none is left). Many of these players are key, key backups and a few very talented ones even become starters. Eventually, if these players stick it out and become key contributors, athletic money may be offered.

So to make a statement that money has to be offered to be considered DI material, is stupid. Talk to any DI coach (I do regularly) and they will tell you the same thing.

Benspapa hit the nail on the head, if they(DI's) are truly interested their head coach will make an effort to contact you.

Once again, I have no affiliation to any high school team, but I do follow the games in the Spring and Summer quite a bit. I have seen many, many talented high schoolers who go on to play DII, DIII, and NAIA college baseball who have the ability to play at the DI level. A few of these have actually went on to the major league level.

Big Dawg, you should also know that many DI signees listed on the Buckeye Scout every year receive $0 in athletic money(scholarship) from these schools. If you talk to many parents of these young men(I do regularly), if they are being honest with you, they will tell you that most of their money comes from grants and academic money, not athletic money.

So offering a player athletic MONEY has very little, if nothing, to do with a young many having the ability to play at the DI level.

[bigdawg33]

Sorry I misread the statement. I thought he meant does Ohio State...actually have to make you an offer (not money). He is talking about being contacted by....invited to camps....etc... OSU sends out over 500 emails to HS students...most colleges blind copy their list, OSU does not...

I am full aware of the 11.7 scholarships....and how happy a coach is to find a bright student/player who he can get academic money to....or that many of the players qualify for more financial aid then the baseball coach can offer......this leaves money for the other kids.
Benspapa is right...as he usually is.

[BaseballRepresent]

You are absolutely right, you are entitled to your opinion....I just have a hunch you are a player on this team....and not an interested nonbiased adult...of course that is my opinion.



Well I'm not a player on the team, Sorry to break it to you. I am, however, a woodridge fan, and am related to a player on the team.

[BaseballRepresent]

I wouldn't be surprised if a couple northern schools get to Omaha in 2008. Would love to see a Flashy group be one of them.

Oh man, if kent state does make it to the college show...i want tickets for sure.

[BdawgsBB22]

I'm a player on the team, n the whole thing about Field beating woodridge, i mean anything could happen look at the firestone game last year, who expected that? n the comments about woodridge class of 08' signing with DII n DIII schools saying some are mistakes n blah blah, that dumb, everyone doesnt know what head coaches are telling them n saying if they will start as a freshman or if that plan on transfering to a DI school after a little work with a smaller school. If your gonna put them down know the whole story, i think every player from the Canes could be potentialy play with a DI school after high school or down the road. N to say field would eat our lunch is funny, if the teams as hype as you all build it up 2 be it would be a good game if anything. no blow out here.

[CVCAroyals]

Go Bulldogs. I know CVCA and Woodridge are friendly rivals, but it has been a pleasure seeing the Woodridge program grow into what it is today. I remember seeing Woodridge in the late 90's when they struggled to win 5-7 games. Now it is a failure if they dont win 20. Unbelieveable. And seeing both Woodridge and Field play, I think Woodridge would win because they are 4 pitchers deep and field has one good pitcher. Good luck this season Woodridge see you on April 12th.

[BaseballRepresent]

sooo if u have only heard of umbright how did field win the league last year. Boggs, mcautchen yazecko, they are all retuning this year and they will hand woodridge there lunch like i said before. plus fields class of 09,is better than any one elses around the county and field will threepeat after next year


I'm sorry. I thought this was hilarious when i read all my old posts considering it was the other way around. Walk the Talk, and don't make an --- out of yourself on an online forum.

[DennyCrane]

Go Bulldogs. I know CVCA and Woodridge are friendly rivals, but it has been a pleasure seeing the Woodridge program grow into what it is today. I remember seeing Woodridge in the late 90's when they struggled to win 5-7 games. Now it is a failure if they dont win 20. Unbelieveable. And seeing both Woodridge and Field play, I think Woodridge would win because they are 4 pitchers deep and field has one good pitcher. Good luck this season Woodridge see you on April 12th.

Yes, I remember most teams would have a love/hate relationship with Woodridge from years ago. They would hate to make the drive and play on that field because it used to be the worst in NEO. (Yes, worse than Rootstown and Windham). And love Woodridge because you know you were going to pound them in 5 innings.

My how times have changed! Now it is the best baseball complex in the PTC and they have an outstanding team to boot.

In fact, this year the PTC seems a lot more competitive from top to bottom.

[strik3out08]

woodridge has a very good chance of beating walsh. they have a strong well rounded team.

[4hitter]

Where do you guys find all of the Ohio records? That is very cool that you can compare the hitters of the past to the hitters now. I also believe that Woodrige is good (but they can't get too cocky, ask Stow). If they come to play ball and not look forward past league games than they should do very well. Lots of Talent! What big area teams do they play this year?

[BaseballRepresent]

Where do you guys find all of the Ohio records? That is very cool that you can compare the hitters of the past to the hitters now. I also believe that Woodrige is good (but they can't get too cocky, ask Stow). If they come to play ball and not look forward past league games than they should do very well. Lots of Talent! What big area teams do they play this year?

VERY TRUE!! The loss against stow this early in the season will hopefully show them that it's time to step it up. They play CVCA and Walsh/CFalls today.

[sball1415]

baseballrepresent you seem to know a lot about woodridge baseball. it kinda seems like you are a woodridge alumni just trying to get your team some attention.

[IRISH]

Nothing wrong with that. :cool:

[bigdawg33]

my guess is he is a woodridge player....pretending to be be a fan...nothing wrong with that either I guess

[BaseballRepresent]

Nothing wrong with that. :cool:

Exactly my irish friend :cool:. And bigdawg33, i know it's killing you that you don't know who i am, and you probably never will, but you'll get over it, i'm sure.

Hey IRISH, how are those ursuline boys looking? Tough like last year?

[BaseballRepresent]

baseballrepresent you seem to know a lot about woodridge baseball. it kinda seems like you are a woodridge alumni just trying to get your team some attention.

Well, let's just say i like the school and the players and the parents a lot. Great place to send your kids and a fantastic reputation for getting the most out of athletes. Can't ask for anything more really, except a state title.:thumb: