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By Chris Valentine

For most high school baseball players, they begin to emerge as college prospects in high school.

But, Xavier Turner isn?t just any high school baseball player.

The recent 2012 Ohio State commitment reflected on his first taste of the college recruiting process. ?When I was in 8^th grade, I was pitching in relief for the (Sandusky) legion team, and I was throwing 85 mph.?

Fortunately for Turner, several colleges were in the stands that day, including Bowling Green and Xavier University. He recalls, ?I don?t think they were expecting me to throw that hard.? From that point forward, the future Ohio State infielder knew that baseball would be a part of his future.

Last summer, the Sandusky standout caught the eye of several college coaches, including Ohio State Coach Greg Beals, at the East Coast Pro Showcase Tryouts in Dayton.

This fall, Turner attended a recruiting visit on Ohio State?s campus, which included a football game as well as interaction with the coaches and current players. Turner notes, ?When I saw the team (practice), I love the way they played. I just loved the players and coaches.?

In particular, Turner connected with current Ohio State freshman standout, Josh Desze. He recalls, ?He made me comfortable ? like I was one of the guys.?

While he wasn?t expecting an offer, Turner didn?t take long to pledge his commitment to the Ohio State 2012 recruiting class, which also features RHP/IF Jacob Bosiokovic of Delaware Hayes and RHP Logan Bowles of Canton South, who quickly text messaged Turner with a congratulatory note. By playing at Ohio State, Turner has the ability to play close to home, which is important to him due to his close relationship with his mother, father, and sister.

Blessed with a big time arm, Turner plays shortstop and pitches for Sandusky (19-2), who faces off against Anthony Wayne in the District Semifinals this evening. On the season, the Ohio State recruit is hitting .500 (37/74) with 3 homeruns. While he has power at the plate, he describes himself as ?a gap-to-gap kind of guy." Turner, who will be taking the mound tonight, hopes to lead the Streaks to the District Final against the winner of Ashland and Perrysburg.

*Photo credit to the Sandusky Register