college pitching

Question
I am a left handed pitcher from the Chicago area. I have tremendous stuff but only throw 82-83 right now. A year ago i was at 74 so ive made quite a jump. I'm 6 feet and about 175. My change up is one of the best around along with my breaking stuff. Potenitally i think ill be in the upper 80's. Am i ready for D1 baseball or is JUCO the route i should take?

Answer
John,
Whether or not you're ready for a D1 program largely depends on how you are doing against your current high school competition and at what level that competition resides.  There are a lot of high schools out there and there are a lot of different levels of high school leagues.  If you are a starter on your varsity hs team in a good to average league and you are deemed to be one of the better pitchers in this league, not by yourself, but by your peers, coaches, scouts, etc., then the decision to go to a D1 school might be made up for you by way of a scholarship, or at the very least some attention from a specific coach.  If this happens, your coach would be the best judge of where these offers might come from.  The JC route is a great route if you choose the right program.  You'll get better instruction, more playing time, and in some cases better competition at the JC level.  If you feel you haven't fully grown into your body, need more time to hone your skills, a JC is a great place to develop, but there are pitfalls.  A JC, academically, is what you make of it.  You won't get a lot of pressure to go to class and discipline becomes a huge part of the process.  Like I said, if you're still growing both physically and baseball-wise, there is nothing wrong with going to a JC, but make sure that it is a reputable program with a coach that is known for his experience and teaching ability (especially a pitching coach).  The good news is that you are tall, left handed and obviously taking an early interest in your future.  Don't shoot too high and make sure that academics play at least some role in your decision.  If you're good enough, they will find you no matter where you are.  Hope this helps, John.  If I've left something out or you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.  Good Luck

Donovan