WEST BLOOMFIELD - What can Ty Stepek bring to a college baseball program?

“You’ll be getting a smart and advanced hitting-ability guy,” the Walled Lake Northern High School junior said. “I’m someone who’s very coachable, honest and humble and is not afraid to work his butt off to get on the field and earn my playing time.”

The 29th-ranked 2022 player in the state has impressed Aaron Wilson, PBR Michigan Director of Scouting, with what he can provide a program at the next level.

“Ty is a guy you want on your team if winning games is the goal,” Wilson explained. “He's able to play all over the infield as well as get on the mound. He has a quick glove to hand transfer behind the dish while showing a line-drive approach at the plate.”

Schools are now taking notice in the 6-0 165-pounder.

“I’ve been talking to a few and gone on some virtual visits,” Stepek related. “I’m looking to do more visits but it’s been hard since covid happened. I’d like to visit the campus and talk to the coaches one-on-one but you can’t do that, so I’ve been going to showcases and getting videos out.”

Western Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Oakland and Bowling Green are among those showing an interest in the versatile third-rated junior catcher in Michigan.

“Those I’ve talked with like my hitting the most,” Stepek noted. “They like how I’m a utility player that can play anywhere on the field. Western has looked at other things I do besides catcher, while Eastern and the others are looking at my catching.”

Improvement has been vital in gaining interest from colleges at the Division I level.

“I’ve been doing strength programs and training,” Stepek said. “I’ve been working on the little things, doing catching drills at my house and running to improve my speed. I’m trying to improve my numbers to show I’m better than the other guy.”

The desire to play beyond high school is not a new development for the 16-year-old.

“I’ve wanted to play college baseball since I was young,” Stepek explained. “I just love the game so much. It’s really fun to play.”

The idea is now more realistic than ever.

“A bunch of my coaches said I could play at the next level because of my hard work and dedication to the game,” Stepek pointed out.

His travel coach with USA Prime 17U has been beneficial in that regard.

“He’s really helped me a bunch, taking videos and helping me out in any way he can,” Stepek said of Michael Rubenstein.

Stepek’s father, John, is another that has been influential.

“My dad got me where I am today as a player and person,” Stepek noted. “From paying for my showcases to getting me the best equipment, he’s been the one.”

Now it is a matter of finding the perfect home for the future for Stepek, who pulled in a 4.0 GPA the first quarter this school year.

“What I’m looking for is the best fit for my baseball career and academically,” related Stepek, who plans to major in business and finance. “It’s about the fit and how comfortable I am. I’d like to stay preferably in the midwest.

“They must have what I want in academics plus have a family-like surrounding,” Stepek added. “It’s also important how the coach and the program can develop me each year.”

The sixth-ranked uncommitted 2022 player in the state has no timeframe as far as making a decision.

“With hard work and dedication I’m working to improve at every position,” pointed out Stepek. “It’s primarily at catcher, but also pitching, shortstop and I’m also starting to play more third base and second base while branching off into the outfield. I’ve learned from coaches I’ve been talking to that I can be way more valuable doing that. Hopefully, it leads to getting more offers.”