They played two years of summer baseball together in high school, were roommates and teammates at the University of Dayton and will embark on their professional careers together after signing with the Houston Astros on Monday.
Right-handed pitcher Mike Hauschild, who was picked in the 33rd round of the major league draft, and free-agent shortstop Brian Blasik will report to the club’s rookie affiliate in Greeneville, Tenn., on Wednesday and begin playing short-season Class A games next week.
Hauschild, a Beavercreek High School graduate, and Blasik, a former Valley View star, helped the Flyers to their first NCAA tournament appearance this season.
“I had the dream (of playing in the big leagues) ever since I started playing baseball, and I got a little bit stronger as I kept moving up each level. It’s just a blessing right now to get that opportunity,†said Hauschild, who went 7-3 with a 4.26 ERA and a team-high 92 strikeouts this season.
“I didn’t have the year I wanted to at UD, but the Astros took a chance on me, and it took a huge load off my shoulders when I heard I’d get a chance.â€
Blasik hit a team-best .343 and was 36-of-39 on steal attempts. He’s UD’s first All-American, making the Louisville Slugger third team.
Asked what he has to do to climb the ladder in the pros, Blasik said: “Pretty much do the same things I’ve been doing, really. I’ve succeeded at every level I’ve played at, and I don’t see why I shouldn’t succeed at this level, either.â€
Hauschild, who is second at UD in career strikeouts (269) and third in wins (23), said he needs to get more of a command of his fastball to move up.
“I kind of struggled toward the end of the season. I could only hit one side (of the plate) on a given day,†he said. “I feel if I can pound the knees on both sides of the plate, I’ll be able to keep hitters off balance with just my fastball, and my off-speed stuff will be a bonus.â€
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