Nick Fletcher Commits to Holy Cross for Baseball
By Joe Ginley '12 , 07/17/19, 9:15AM EDT
Fletcher will continue his education with the Jesuits.
After an outstanding junior season, Nick Fletcher has decided on the next step of his journey.
The star pitcher and outfielder for the Wildcats has committed to the College of the Holy Cross, a Jesuit school in Worcester, Massachusetts. Fletcher announced his decision on Tuesday on Instagram.
Fletcher drew a heap of attention from programs from across the Midwest and the country. His feats on the mound, in the field, and at the plate played a critical role in the Wildcats' state championship. His part in winning the crown cannot be underestimated.
In looking at schools, Fletch wanted to find a school where he felt comfortable with the coaches, campus, and the academics. Holy Cross presented the perfect opportunity to check all of those boxes.
"Holy Cross is the perfect fit for me both academically and athletically," Fletcher said. "I’ll have the opportunity to get a great education and play really high-level baseball. I loved being on campus and felt like it was really a place I could be challenged but still feel comfortable at."
During the process, Fletcher related very well with the Crusaders' coaching staff. They made Fletch feel welcome from the get-go.
"I really look forward to working with Coach DiCenzo, Coach Capen, and the entire staff," Fletcher said. "They all made me feel welcome on campus and we’re very open with me during this whole process."
It's no surprise that Fletcher gelled well with the coaching staff. Fletcher is a very coachable player. The rising senior responds well to coaching – he's always on the lookout for ways to improve and work on his game. Fletcher is no high strung prima donna. He's a down-to-earth, humble guy who coaches and players enjoy being around.
Head Baseball Coach Brad Ganor certainly loves having him on the Wildcats.
"Nick has really emerged as a true bulldog on the mound and I think he will only get better at the next level," said Ganor. "Holy Cross is getting a great baseball player, but an even better person. I am so happy for Nick."
Besides his personal qualities, Fletcher is a force to be reckoned with on the field. A bulldog in every sense of the word, Fletcher is a mentally tough player with the physical skills to match.
Over the course of the season, Fletcher developed into the Wildcats' No. 2 starter behind Andrew Mulhern '19. Fletch provided some nice starts during the regular season, but did his best work in the postseason. Fletcher pitched big innings in several playoff games, including the Regional Final win over Sylvania Southview and a shutout win over Brecksville-Broadview Heights in the District Semifinal. Most importantly, Fletcher pitched 5 scoreless innings against Hilliard Darby in the State Semifinal, surrendering just three hits.
For the season, Fletcher finished with a 6-1 record, 1.89 ERA and a 1.08 WHIP. In 37 innings, Fletch struck out 32 batters, allowing just 27 hits and 10 runs. He appeared in 11 games, making six starts. Fletcher also notched 13 hits, 12 runs, and 4 RBI during his time playing right field. After showing off his outstanding stuff this year, his teammates voted him as a captain for the 2020 season.
Fletcher will also step into another new role this fall as a color analyst for SIBN football broadcasts. A former quarterback for the Wildcats, Fletcher stepped aside from the game due to injuries. After honing his skills as a JV broadcaster last year, Fletcher will step into the booth for varsity games this year. You'll hear Fletcher plenty on air this season.
With his wide array of talents, Fletcher wanted to continue his well-rounded education with the Jesuits at the next level.
"The fact that Holy Cross is a Jesuit school was also huge for me," Fletcher said. "I went to a Jesuit grade school as well and is something that I’ve loved thus far and am comfortable with, and am excited to be able to continue doing."
