Graham

CRANBERRY TWP — Youngstown State University's baseball program is excited to have landed Jack Graham in its latest recruiting class.

The feeling is mutual.

Graham, a senior second baseman at Seneca Valley, signed a letter of intent last month to play at the eastern Ohio school.

He made a verbal commitment over the summer after a campus visit and will receive a partial scholarship.

“They did a good job of recruiting me,” said Graham, who also considered George Mason, Kentucky, Virginia Tech and Maryland. “They really feel I could become an important part of the program. ”

As a junior last spring, Graham batted .379 for the Raiders and managed an on-base percentage of .455.

“Getting a player like Jack Graham, this is a big signing for us,” said YSU coach Rich Pasquale. “He's a second baseman with some pop in his bat. He's a very intelligent player and has a tremendous work ethic.”

Graham figured to be a key contributor at halfback for Seneca Valley's football team the last two seasons, but he spent much of the time on the sidelines.

In 2009, a nagging left ankle injury limited him to 60 carries and he tore the ACL in his left knee in the opening game of 2010.

“I've been jogging and going through physical therapy,” said Graham. “I should be 100 percent by late March, just in time for the start of the high school season. (My knee) shouldn't be much of an issue.”

For the last two summers, Graham has played for an All-American Baseball Center squad that trains near Monroeville.

“It's a traveling team,” said Graham. “We faced some really good competition and the experience has made me a better player.”

YSU compiled a 23-33 record last spring. It was a campaign that Pasquale is hoping proves to be a steppingstone for the team.

“It's been very positive around the program. We have some really talented players,” said Pasquale, who is preparing for his fourth season with the Penguins.

“Every year, jobs are won and Jack will certainly have the chance to do that when he gets here,” added Pasquale. “I think he'll contribute right away.”