The early signing period is right around the corner for seniors in the Class of 2012.

Thomas Gulley, the 41^st ranked prospect in this years graduating class, remains one of the top uncommitted prospects left in the state.

Gulley, a two-way prospect from Stow High School, is an extraordinary athlete, and his physical measurements can stack up to anyone in the state.

At 6-foot-3, 220-pounds, Gulley has regularly displayed sub 7.0 60-yard dash speed during the summer and fall showcase circuit.

Inside in the batters box, he is a switch-hitter with a balanced set up, a strong lower half, and exceptional bat speed.

From third base, he displays an easy mid to high 80’s velocity across the infield.

Finally, on the mound, he shows exceptional arm strength (88-90 mph velocity) and the potential to be an impact pitcher at the next level.

Deep into the recruiting process, Gulley has a number of things on his mind. But, as he reflects on his skills and position at the next level, he says, “I think that a lot of coaches would like me to pitch because I throw hard, but I am a much better switch-hitter and position player.”

Before he figures out his potential position at the next level, Gulley needs to find the college program that fits him best.

Without naming specifics, Gulley says, “I have heard from a lot of Ohio schools, Michigan schools, Tennessee schools, and a few others.”

Earlier this fall, he recalls one of the highlights of his recruiting process, “I went to a Virginia Tech Thursday night football game. Virginia Tech played their rival Georgia Tech, and I had my picture taken with ESPN’s Reece Davis, Craig James, and Jesse Palmer.”

While the glitz and glamour can be appealing, Gulley says that education will be an important factor in his decision making process. With a mother who has been in education for twenty years, he understands the importance of a good education.

So, as Gulley’s recruiting process begins to wind down, he provides this advice for underclassmen, “Be patient. Start early, put a list together of the schools that you are interested in and start calling them and emailing them, so they know your schedule (games, tournaments, and showcases).”