photograph: Kim North
Rocco Paolina, Lindsley, Center, signed the NCAA National Letter Friday afternoon to play baseball at Malone University inside Burns Hall on the Lindsley campus. He is sandwiched between his father, Rick, and his mother, Stacey.
Wheeling – It was a big day for the Linsley baseball program as senior Rocco Paolina signed a letter in his NCAA National Letter to play baseball at Malone University in Canton.
Cadets are considered two-way players painted pencils as pitchers/outfielders.
“I like pitching more than playing in the outfield,” he admitted. “The ball is in my hands throughout the game.”
Paolina said he would throw five pitches, but his curveball is his best option.
“That’s my go-to pitch,” he said. His others are fastballs, two seamers, four seamers and sliders.
In addition to watching Lindsley’s major innings, Paolina was also an important cog in the Wheeling Post 1 of the W.Va. State Championship American Legion Team last summer.
“I’m really happy with him,” said Breeball coach Jay Cartwright. “This is a special day for us when one of our children makes his college decision.”
“GMAC is really competitive…it’s a good baseball meeting,” Cartwright added. “He will work hard, he is a really good defensive outfielder and a solid left-handed pitcher.
GMAC includes Ashland, Hillsdale, Tiffin, Findlay, Northwood, Lake Erie, Walsh, Ohio Dominica, Kentucky Wesleyan, Cedarville and Thomas More.
“It’s a Christian university and I have a great faith,” Paolina said of why he chose to be the pioneer. “I’m so grateful that they gave me the opportunity to play there. (Head) Coach (Tom) Crank is a great guy.
“I’ve only heard good things about Malone’s program,” Paolina added. “I’m excited to go there.”
“I also received offers from Bethany College and Waynesburg University, but when I went to Malone’s camp they offered me. He spoke about the recruitment process. “I need to see more.” There was none.”
He majors in business management.
Rocco is the son of Rick and Stacey Paolina of Berele.
