By Craig Pearson
TERRE HAUTE — Indiana State has received another commitment for the 2010 baseball season, learning two weeks ago that Franklin Central first baseman Jake Hartley will be a Sycamore.
As a junior last spring, Hartley, a 6-foot, 210-pound left-handed player, is optimistic he can step in and start at first base as a freshman when senior Brian Jett finishes his career this spring.
“Coach [Lindsay] Meggs expects me to come in and hit in the middle of the lineup and play first base,” Hartley said last week. “I’m hoping to be the starter for four years.”
Hartley, who has played his summer ball for the Indiana Bulls, said his decision was between ISU and IU. His coach at Franklin Central, called him one of the most feared hitters in central Indiana.
Hartley hit .375 as a junior with six home runs and 20 RBIs. Hartley had 10 doubles and walked 26 times for an on-base percentage with .579.
Hartley’s sophomore season included more power numbers: six home runs, 21 RBIs and eight doubles to go with a .429 batting average.
“He’s already a plus fielder, and a plus hitter,” Franklin Central coach Chase Huotari said. “What makes him so unique to the high school level, is that he’s not only our best player but our hardest worker in the weight room and on field in drills.
“He’s going to be successful there I have no doubt.”
Hartley looks forward to working on his game in Terre Haute.
“I’ve been there multiple times for practices and games,” he said. “I like how everything’s run. Everybody’s working hard in the weight room, everybody’s practicing 6 days a week.”
