Sam Lisiak C / 1B / Grand Rapids Christian, MI / 2021

GRAND RAPIDS - At an early age, Sam Lisiak went with his parents to the College World Series, getting an opportunity to see both Rosenblatt Stadium and TD Ameritrade Park.

The trips to Omaha - where Lisiak came away impressed with the “MLB atmosphere” - had a profound impact.

“It’s been a dream of mine to play in that ever since,” noted Lisiak, a junior at Grand Rapids Christian.

The reality of being part of a college program is the first step and the fourth-rated 2021 catcher in Michigan appears on the verge of that happening.

“I’ve taken visits to Northwestern, Western Michigan and some local schools,” pointed out Lisiak, listing Eastern Michigan and Hillsdale along with Columbia as other colleges currently on his radar. “With Western, I loved the coaches and the atmosphere because of the coaches. Wth Northwestern, it was also the coaches and the facilities are second to none. The academics also stood out.”

That is a major part of what the 25th-ranked junior in the state will weigh when making his college decision.

“The dream is to go to a school super high academically and super high when it comes to competing in baseball,” noted Lisiak, who carries a 3.8  GPA and is looking at business or finance as a major. “Those are the two biggest targets when looking at schools.”

The 6-2 195-pounder brings strong qualities to the game.

“Definitely the bat portion,” Lisiak said of what stands out about his ability according to the schools showing an interest. “They see me having a big role with power.”

There is more Lisiak brings to the table.