Woosters McGee plays in Crossroads Baseball Series
By Brian Questel
July 6, 2011
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Luke McGee had a spring that gained a lot of attention.
The junior left-hander was a force on the mound for Wooster as he helped the Generals to an 18-6 record. His 8-0 record to go along with a sub-2 ERA not only helped the Blue and Gold to a 13-1 mark in the Ohio Cardinal Conference and the OCC title, but gave him the credentials to be named the OCCs Pitcher of the Year.
That allowed him to be selected for Ohios Crossroads Baseball Series, which showcased the top 16 juniors in six regions across Ohio.
Its a pretty big deal, said Wooster High baseball coach Derek Boyd, who nominated McGee for the team. Guys go down and work out in front of 50-60 college coaches and its a two-day deal. They have a banquet one night and the next day work out for coaches and then play a nine-inning game.
The games were played June 15, although continuing the role that Mother Nature had on spring sports in Ohio, the trio of contests between the six Ohio regional teams were shortened to six innings because of weather issues. As a result, McGee didnt get to showcase his arm, which actually worked out in the long run.
We played six-inning games, said McGee of the decision to defer to the rainy conditions at Wright State University. We had to play three games and we didnt start until 3:45 because of rain delays. My team, the Northeast, played the Northwest and we tied 6-6. I played first base and batted twice. I got a base hit and I reached on a fielders choice, but I didnt get to pitch.
Because McGee was listed as primarily a pitcher and didnt get that opportunity, he was sent to participate in the Michigan Crossroad Series June 22, which was played at Adrian College.
Since I didnt pitch, they sent me to Michigan and I got to pitch two innings instead of one for one of the Michigan teams, said McGee. It worked out Scouts from both areas, for both states, got to watch me.
I had a great time – I loved it. I had a good group of kids on my team and I couldnt ask for anything better. Its always good when people look at you. I like having coachs call and talk. I have no problem with that. Ive gotten two-three-four a week, depending on who it is, and its only going to get more from here.
It should, especially if McGee comes close to his performance last spring. He got some pitching time as a freshman at Wooster, going 1-0, and was 3-3 as a sophomore before this past season. A similar performance next year could further expand his options, although he said right now he has no clue where hes headed for college.
Coach Boyd sent stuff out (to colleges) about contacting me and him, but Im keeping things open right now, said McGee. I would love to play Division I but that will depend on how I do this year and the offers I get. Id love to play Division I, but I would have no problem playing Division II or III.
McGee credited Boyd, a first-year varsity coach at Wooster, as one of the factors for his improvement.
I think it was the work ethic they really pounded into us, said McGee. Boyd stresses perfection; get the first strike and get the first out. He wanted us focused 24/7 – I focused and pretty much threw strikes.
(Boyd) said the hard work would pay off.
