Plymouth Whitemarsh Senior Commits To Villanova

Bobby Slagle can enjoy his fall, his winter, and especially next spring. The star senior catcher can relax a little because he’s set, headed to Villanova on a baseball scholarship. More importantly, he’s unencumbered by the thought of not having to look over his shoulder and wonder if any college scouts are watching his games this spring.

It’s a liberating choice Slagle made when he orally committed to be a Wildcat in June.

“It was a major relief to commit early; Villanova is perfect and the coaches were awesome,” Slagle said. “I know there was some idea that I might be drafted [by a Major League Baseball team next June], but unless someone blows me away with an offer, I’m going to Villanova. It’s a great academic school and the baseball program is a Division I program that plays in the Big East Conference. The first call I got from a college coach was from Villanova. They said everyone that they wanted and they got right to the point. There was no other school even close.”

Slagle had an off-season—by his high standards—his junior year, hitting .370, about 100 points lower than his high school career average. A starter since he was a freshman, Slagle has gradually grown to pound Suburban One League pitching. Opposing pitchers and coaches got the hint fast: Don’t throw anything hittable to Slagle.

“I had to be more selective last year,” Slagle said. “It was one of those adjusting, learning years. I had to learn how to adjust. It was very frustrating, I’ll admit, because you have to be patient. I saw very few fastballs. You have to deal with what you’re offered. I think I’ll be ready to handle the different pitching this season.”

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Slagle carries a 3.9 GPA and has scored 1,790 on the SAT. His combination of academics and ability in baseball attracted a variety group of schools which included Bucknell, William & Mary, West Point, Penn, Harvard, Lafayette and Pitt.

Slagle experienced a strong summer, attending a showcase camps in Georgia, North Carolina, Delaware and Maryland. His best week came right after a particular phone call was made.

“After I committed [in early June], I had the best camp I ever had in my life; it was the best week of baseball games I ever played, all linked into my decision,” Slagle said. “I can focus on baseball this spring. The goal is to win the league this year, and academically, I want to maintain my GPA. Making this decision is so relaxing.”