Mahtomedi's Promising Pitcher Hopes To Lead Team To State
MAHTOMEDI, Minn. (WCCO) – A Mahtomedi pitcher could well be on his way to pitching professionally as he has the tools, strong, hard throws, and is hoping to lead his Mahtomedi team into the state tournament.
Michael Baumann, the Mahtomedi baseball star, loves to pitch.
He has had that passion since he started playing the game.
"Ever since I picked up a ball," Baumann said. "My dad taught me everything I know. I've gone from there. I've worked hard to get to where I am now."
Baumann is committed to Jacksonville University, and his future college coach sits in the stands as Baumann prepares for the state tournament.
Jacksonville said they want Bauman because they see a kid with high potential.
"Big physical kid," Tim Montez, Jacksonville University baseball coach, said "Has just scratched the top of the surface right now. Good solid mechanics, arm works extremely well."
And there is that other variable, the compete factor. Baumann is a kid with a big sturdy frame that wants the ball in his hands.
"I love it. When I'm on the mound, I just like to think that no one is going to touch the ball and if they do then I know I have a good defense behind me," Baumann said.
"He's got a chance to really develop in our program. He's got a chance to be a pretty good draft pick, I think, in three years. If you recruit the right guys they kind of make you look like you know what you are doing a little more," Montez said.
But before his next baseball step there is helping his high school team get to the state tournament.
"Mahtomedi, we've never been in a state tournament. So, we've got a fun thing going. The community is excited, the players are excited. It's been a real ride," Baumann said.