AURORA - With senior year approaching, Jack Fecko was anxiously awaiting to make a college decision. 

“It came down to three colleges - Army, USC-Upstate and Central Michigan,” explained the eighth-rated 2021 left-handed pitcher in Ohio. “I just saw that Central Michigan was the best fit for me. Playing in the MAC, my family could come see me play more and it’s an easier drive. I also love the challenge there.”

Getting through a spring without a high school baseball season was challenging enough for the Aurora High School 17-year-old.

“I just tried to get stronger,” the 6-5 200-pound southpaw related. “That was the most helpful thing for me to do to gain velo. I found a buddy’s basement to work out and also went to a field with buddies to throw bullpens and to hitters. That got me to be the best I can be going into the summer season.”

A participant in the PBR Preseason All-State Showcase as well as the Release Scout Day prior to COVID-19 bringing the cancellation of spring ball, the 55th-ranked 2021 in the state was on the radars of numerous colleges while his game continued to improve.

“I kept working harder and getting stronger,” Fecko said. “My pitchability is up and I’m better with all my pitches. Coaches are comfortable that I can come in and throw strikes and do my job.”

CMU took notice more than a year ago and has stayed in touch ever since.

“What peaked their interest was my performance at LakePoint where my velo was up,” Fecko noted. “The next week I threw another good game in a local tournament and Release sent them a video.

“They like my projectability and that I have hard-working character,” Fecko added about the Mid-American Conference school. “Working hard fits right into their program. They really pride themselves in that and I will fit right in. I’m a team player and will do whatever it takes to win.”

That has Fecko ready to take the next step on the mound.

“I need to continue to get stronger and work on my game, be it mechanics or strength, so when I step on campus I can make an impact instantly,” Fecko said. “I want to be the best I can be.”

A 3.7 student planning on a major in business, Fecko found what he was looking for in a school at Central Michigan.

“I like the culture there, it’s a winning culture,” Fecko pointed out. “They’re all a big family and they all like to win. I also like their side development, the way they get players to be the best they can be.”

Admittedly, recruitment did not come easily for the Aurora product. 

“When there are no offers it’s a hard process, you’re always worrying,” Fecko said. “You’re praying to get recruited and then the first offer comes in and the pressure is off. You’re able to have more fun and work on yourself. It was stressful at times, but you just have to step back and enjoy.”

That is the plan for the future.

“The weight is off the shoulders,” Fecko explained. “I’m happy and can go back to having fun playing baseball again. My family is happy I have a new home and you can’t beat that.

“It’s satisfying, but the work isn’t done,” Fecko added. “It only gets harder from here. Now I’m going to be playing and competing with the best of the best. I’ve got to outwork them and I’m looking forward to it.”
And what is Fecko anticipating the most in Mount Pleasant when it comes to playing at the next level?

“Just being part of the program,” Fecko related. “I’m really going to enjoy college. I can’t wait to meet the team and compete with and be with the best. Not much beats that. It should really be fun.”