'14 RHP Jeremy Randolph Emerges as National Recruit

By Chris Valentine
PBR Ohio Scouting Director

We have all heard the saying, "You never know who is watching?"

But, only a select few of us have the chance to live out that phrase in a meaningful way.

On Tuesday, Miamisburg 2014 RHP Jeremy Randolph took the mound against Springboro with a potential conference title on the line.

Little did Randolph know, his outing would be even more meaningful.

See, on this occasion, a couple of Major League scouts were in attendance to see Springboro 2014 OF Jack Schaaf, a Florida International recruit and potential draft pick in June.

Fortunately, or unfortunately for the scouts, Schaaf wasn't able to show much at the plate as he struck out three times against Randolph, who showcased a fastball that sat in the low 90's.

Now Randolph, who isn't bound by a letter of intent as a preferred walk-on to Wright State, has a decision to make as he has become the latest flavor of the week for college programs across the nation.

After his outing, the word spread quickly from MLB scouts through their network of connections.

And as a result, schools are lining up attend his next start.

In addition to Wright State, schools confirming attendance include Indiana University, Florida International, Stephen F Austin University, LSU, Tennessee, Alabama, Ball State, Cincinnati, Miami, Baton Rouge Community College, Tennessee Tech, South Florida State College, Eastern Florida State College, Polk State College, Berry College, Transylvania, and Central Arizona.

At this stage, Florida International and Wright State have both offered scholarships.

And, to add to the audience, a handful of MLB organizations will be represented, including the Diamondbacks, Cubs, Phillies, Pirates, Blue Jays, Padres and Rangers. 

For the young righty, this adds another chapter to his recruitment process.

Last summer, the 6-foot, 180-pound pound righty sat in the mid 80's and touched into the upper 80's while relying on a 76-77 mph breaking ball as his out pitch. But, this spring has obviously proved to be very different.

Randolph's next start comes on Tuesday at home against West Carrollton at 5:00 pm, which happens to be senior night for the Vikings. PBR will be in attendance bringing you live updates and add video of his start to the scouting blog.