By Sean Duncan

Austin Mastela didn’t start the season the way he had imagined. Through April 20, the 6-foot-1, 180-pound Lockport outfielder was hitting .179. Not exactly the numbers you would expect from the Lewis University recruit.

Since then, though, Mastela has made an incredible turnabout, hitting nearly .600 from his lowest point. His torrid hitting culminated last week, when Mastela went 12-for-19 with 4 doubles, 1 triple, 2 homers and a ridiculous 20 RBI during a six-game stretch, which earned him Porsche Exchange Player of the Week honors.

 "This is a testament to Austin's work ethic and grit as a ball player,” said Lockport coach Andy Satunas.  “While he did get frustrated early in the season, he just kept working at seeing the ball better and barreling it up.  What he has done has been fun to watch."

Among his breakout games last week included a 6-RBI game vs. Joliet Central in which he went 3-for-4 with a grand slam. He also went 3-for-5 with 2 doubles, a triple and 7 RBI against Stevenson.

For the season, Mastela is hitting .367 with 13 doubles, 3 homers, 2 triples, 11 stolen bases and 34 RBI.

The Porsche Exchange salutes Mastela for his hard work and success.

Click Here to view past Porsche Exchange Player of the Week honors.