By Chris Valentine
PBR Ohio Scouting Director

After a long summer, Toledo Christian senior left-handed pitcher Dakoda Brown is approaching decision time.

At the Unsigned Senior Games on August 11th, the southpaw shined as one of the top pitcher's in attendance with command of three pitches, including a low to mid 80's fastball.

Just as his list of potential suitors expanded, he is faced with the process of coming down to one school.

"The schools I have been deciding between have been the MAC schools that have contacted me... Kent State, Toledo, Bowling Green, Central Michigan, and Miami (OH)," he explained.

So far, he has taken several visits, including The Ohio State University, Kent State and Toledo along with his most recent visits at Bowling Green State and Liberty University. 

Brown breaks down his visits and options.

Kent State - "I really liked Kent State's Campus and what they offered academically. At the time they were recruiting me, I was talking with Coach Stricklin and Coach Birkbeck. I was able to seen both coaches in action during a game and I loved their intensity and drive.  I liked their structure to practices. They are great coaches and would love to play for them."

Toledo - "I think Toledo has a very good program under Coach Mee and pitching Coach Josh Bradford. I went to a pitching camp held by Coach Bradford and he was great.  I believe my recent improvements have come directly from what I learned and continued to practice in his camp. Unfortunately, I was unable to meet with Coach Mee due to him being out of town."

Liberty University - "One word, "Unbelievable"...  The athletic facilities are amazing. The University just built an $8M baseball stadium that is unbelievable. This is a Christian school that most represents the atmosphere that I am currently use to at Toledo Christian.  I feel like I could go to school there as a student athlete.  They are in the Big South Conference and they are rivals against Coastal Carolina. For non-conference games they play Wake Forest, Clemsen, North Carolina and South Carolina. The coaching staff was very respectful with a very strong work ethic. Great baseball is played here."

Ohio State University - "My family and I took a campus visit and there was not one thing I didn't like about the campus both academically and for athletics. Coach Beals and Coach Holick have been great. At my campus visit last year, I had the opportunity to attend one of their games. I really liked the structure that Coach Beals provides in their practices and pregame.  I liked Coach Beals no-nonsense approach to practice and the game."

Bowling Green State University - "BGSU has been my most recent school to visit and I was very impressed by their presentation during my campus visit and athletic tour. I live close to BG and I was surprised to find out the university started out as a teachers college and I want to major in education so this makes a very good fit for me.  Coach Schmitz and Coach Blanc were very professional in there athletic tour with me and my family. They made me feel like they really wanted me as a prospect. I toured with the coaching staff throughout the athletic complex and was very impressed with the coaching staff."

With plenty of attention coming his way, Brown is still evaluating his options, but when asked if he has a leader at this time, the talented lefty said, "At the moment, Bowling Green has my attention."

This fall, Brown will continue to play with the Midland organization, where he has played the last three summers.