Northeastern JC lands Balman’s baseball services

    STERLING — In the end, Jaron Balman’s choices for college baseball next season were down to Troy University in Alabama, Scottsdale Junior College in Arizona, Hutchinson Junior College in Kansas and the one he picked.
    Flanked by his family, Balman signed with Northeastern Junior College Jan. 15.
    “They offered a 90 percent scholarship, and their baseball program is phenomenal,” said Frederick’s senior catcher. NEJC was 44-16 a year ago. “They have been interested in me since they saw me play Sterling High School my senior year.”

Photo by Jonathan Seib, Sterling Journal-Advocate

Frederick’s Jaron Balman signs his baseball letter of intent with Northeastern Junior College Jan. 15. Joining him for the ceremony, from left, were his sister, Chase, on the far left, his mom, Cece, his dad, Shay and his sister, Carson.

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    Two players from Brighton — Rodney Morales, who pitches for Brighton High School and Trent Mueller, who pitches and plays right field for Prairie View — were among 13 players who signed their collegiate letters Jan. 15.
    “I met most of the kids who signed,” Balman said. “They were from all over. One kid (Liam Wilson) was even from Canada.”
    Balman’s goal is to finish up his first few academic courses at NEJC while eyeing an NCAA Division I baseball program.
    “I’m just excited, not nervous or anything yet,” Balman said. “I’m looking forward to my senior season. I’ve been swinging and such, and I hope to make this the best season I’ve had here at FHS.”

Contact Sports Editor Steve Smith at ssmith@metrowestnewspapers.com