Uncommitted LHP Hitzelberger Trying To Stay Patient

RICHMOND - Bennett Hitzelberger admits the recruiting process has had its share of frustration thus far.

“I’m pretty disappointed,” Hitzelberger said. “I feel I have the talent and that I show it when I play in games. It’s all just frustrating to me.”

There has only been talk with a couple of colleges at this point in time for the third-rated 2022 left-handed pitcher in Michigan.

“I’ve been talking to Wayne State and Eastern Michigan and reached out to many others in the midwest,” the incoming senior at Richmond High School noted. “There’s not been much traction … nothing really.”

That lack of attention comes despite the 6-1 182-pound southpaw throwing a three-pitch mix that includes a fastball hitting 88.36. Additionally, Hitzelberger also runs a 6.96 time in the 60, and plays both outfield and first base when not on the mound.

“Ben is one of the more explosive athletes in the state,” pointed out Aaron Wilson, PBR Michigan Scouting Director. “He’s a two-way prospect that boosts a 100-plus exit velo from the left side of the plate. He will add versatility and depth to any program.

“On the mound, he has a heavy fastball and a power curve. He’s also one of the most respectful young men you will meet.”

The 25th-rated 2022 in the state admits to some bewilderment at the lack of interest.

“When I go to camps and showcases I put up good numbers and show what I’m about,” Hitzelberger explained. “I was first team all-state, yet I'm struggling at getting communication with these schools.”

The top-ranked uncommitted 2022 southpaw hurler in Michigan is confident he will be a major asset to whatever program he ends up at when it comes to the next level.

“I’m someone that wants to win,” Hitzelberger pointed out. “I’m someone that competes, someone that works hard every day to make the team better. Wherever they need me, I’ll perform.

“People look at me as a pitcher first,” added Hitzelberger,who was 10-0 with a 1.23 ERA this spring at Richmond, striking out 91 in 60 innings of work. “Wayne State said they’d give me an opportunity to have a spot in the lineup, too. I’d like to show I can do both.”

Strides, in particular, have been made on the mound.

“I’ve worked my butt off in the offseason,” Hitzelberger related. “I’ve been working on my mechanics with my coaches. Steve Avery, my summer coach, knows what he’s talking about and my high school coaches are also always willing to help. I’ve really been getting better in the offseason.

“My velocity is up,” Hitzelberger continued. “I was up to 87 consistently at the end of the year in high school and I’ve gotten stronger mentally, worrying only about the next pitch and not the past. I’ve also gotten stronger physically. My legs are bigger, I watch youtube videos about how important hips are and about the importance of being more mobile. I’ve been working with former college pitchers so I can be as successful as them.”

A 3.999 student with plans to major in the medical field, Hitzelberger anticipates interest picking up soon.

“I’m hoping more schools will respond to my emails,” Hitzelberger said. “There have been coaches at my games, but they just tell me to come to this camp and that camp. I’d like to talk to the coaches more.”

As for a blueprint on what he’s looking for …

“I want to stay in the midwest,” Hitzelberger noted. “I’d like to go to a school that offers a good medical program with a baseball team that fits in with me.”

For now, the search continues for the senior-to-be, who will only turn 17 on July 21.

“This whole process has been very stressful,” Hitzelberger said. “I feel like I’m not getting what I deserve. My dad has been taking me to these camps and showcases and I’m not getting what I want. But I’ve just got to be patient and hopefully I will find the right fit.”