WADSWORTH - A commitment to Wright State capped off an amazing three-month run for Parker Falkenstein.

It started when the 25th-ranked 2024 in Ohio helped Hoban to a Division II title, highlighted by a game-winning double in the fifth inning of a 4-3 win over Vermilion in the state semifinals earning the then-freshman co-Player of the Game honors.

“Unbelievable,” Falkenstein said about the experience of claiming a state championship at Canal Park in Akron. “I saw a fastball outside and hit it to the gap. I was just having fun. It gave me a lot of confidence.”

Two weeks later, Falkenstein drew “Dude Alert” recognition following an impressive performance at the PBR Northern Ohio Prospect Games. The 5-10 160-pounder continued to shine at the Future Games in Georgia at the beginning of August, reaching base four times with a pair of stolen bases.

“Just playing against better players like the ones at LakePoint can help along with being around the environment knowing there are eyes on you and playing under pressure,” Falkenstein said of participating in the premier PBR event of the summer.

West Virginia and Kent State came into the recruiting picture for Falkentstein after the Future Games, joining Ohio State, Miami and Wright State. But by the time another month rolled around, the Hoban sophomore had made a decision on his college future.

“Since our first call they were open with me and made me feel comfortable,” Falkenstein said of Wright State, which began showing interest at the Final Four in June. “They had seven guys drafted this past year and I like that. It’s where I want to be.”

Wright State saw a number of strong traits displayed by Falkenstein that made the ultra-quick outfielder a strong fit at the Horizon League school.

“They like my athleticism, how I also play football, and how I’m a competitor,” the recently-turned 16-year-old noted about Wright State. “They like how I have speed, how I play the game, how I run the bases and track balls in the outfield and how I’m a good teammate.”

Falkenstein credited improvement over the past year-plus with being beneficial in becoming a D-I commit.

“I’ve been in the weight room a lot because of Covid and the quarantine and I just worked,” Falkenstein explained. “I’ve noticed my speed has really helped me more in my game.”

That is just part of what Falkenstein believes he will be able to bring to the program at Wright State.

“A lot of speed and a good teammate,” Falkenstein said in regard to what he can provide at the next level. “I’ll be a good student and someone that will connect with other players.”

Playing after high school is not a recent development according to Falkenstein.

“Since I was little I’ve been watching college baseball and have wanted to play at the next level,” related Falkenstein, who has a 3.7 GPA and is looking into “something sports related” as a major at Wright State. “A year or two ago people started telling me I could do it and I’ve taken that to heart and worked even harder. Now it’s actually happening.”

Jaret Edwards, Hoban head coach Andrew Bonette, Release coach Matt Rosinski and former coach Todd Winston along with parents and friends are others, according to Falkenstein, that played major roles in helping the prospect of becoming a D-I commit turn into reality.

“The feeling was insane,” Falkenstein said about making a commitment official at the university located three hours from his home in Wadsworth. “I was with my parents and they were so excited for me.”

Like so many that have gone on to play baseball at Wright State, Falkenstein now has another goal for the future.

“Next is the MLB Draft,” Falkenstein said. “I want to get there.”