By Jon Feyen
ScoutU 

Alec Schmitz possesses rare fastball velocity, a sharp curve and plenty of power at the plate. Getting an NCAA Division I offer during your senior year is another thing that’s quite rare. So, it should be no surprise that Schmitz and Saint Peter’s (NJ) University found each other, as the 2020 ScoutU pitcher committed recently. 

Schmitz, who is just finishing up at Sun Prairie (Wis.) High School, first teamed up with ScoutU last November. By the time he committed this spring, he had received more than 20 offers. Saint Peter’s had everything he was looking for at the next level. 

“Playing college baseball has been a goal and dream of mine for many years, so I’m very excited,” Schmitz said. “Playing on the East Coast has been a goal too, so Saint Peter’s being in the MAAC and near New York City is very exciting. I felt very comfortable on my visit with the size of the university, the coach and the players. They were very welcoming and made it clear they wanted me on the team.” 

ScoutU’s Jason Lauren knew Schmitz owned elite tools, but also had to be realistic at this stage in the recruiting process. 

“With an elite fastball velocity of 88 mph, a 12/6 curve and his 6-foot-3 frame, Alec has the arm talent and size D1 schools seek,” Lauren said. “When I started helping Alec with his recruiting in November, I knew he had the talent to play at the D1 level, but I didn’t know if there’d be any D1 opportunities left for him that would be a good fit. 

“While getting his info to D1 schools, I also made sure junior colleges were aware of him, in case he didn’t find a D1 fit. When he committed to Saint Peter’s, I was very excited for Alec and was glad he found a great school for him, despite starting the recruiting process so late.” 

In addition to his pitching prowess, Schmitz had a stellar sophomore year offensively. He racked up six home runs and 23 RBIs while hitting 10 doubles and five triples. 

Schmitz is dedicated to improving every day, often starting at 5 a.m. All that hard work, combined with ScoutU’s guidance, has paid off big time. 

“I had serious phone conversations with a dozen or more coaches, and I emailed with many more,” Schmitz said. “ScoutU was helpful by putting my profile in front of many coaches and sharing with them my stats, talents and ability to contribute to a team.”