I have searched online for a probable discussion to see if my question could be answered and I didn't seem to find one. Here is my question: 2019 Pitcher has been talking with D2 school for months. He was first seen by them in December at a winter camp and again a few weeks ago at a Prospect camp where he was able to throw live in games. Head coach asks for son to sit down with him after he walks off field. Says he likes what he sees, definitely sees projection with some time in the weight room working on lower half of body, strong academics and Pre-Med program to offer at school. Only caveat - they don't have money in the recruiting budget because they have a strong roster of Seniors that will need to be retained. After the seniors move on, then his sophomore year they will most likely have money to give him as long as he is living up to the expectations and showing progress. Asked for him to send some dates in the Fall that would work for us so he can come stay with team for the weekend and workout with them. See if the school feels right to him and learn more about Pre-Med program. Asked when he wanted to be committed by and son said he wanted to wait a little bit since this was early in Summer ball. Coach says send me some dates for the Fall and we will see you then.
Son followed up with a thank you email the next day. Asked a couple followup questions to make sure he heard what he thought he had heard for certain. Coach says when I offer a roster spot, it's yours. You have a spot on my team and take your time deciding. we are here when you are ready and can't wait to get you on campus in Fall.
Is this truly an offer or because they aren't offering any athletic money to speak of, they are just saying he can come be a member of the team and there are no true "commitments"? I'm trying to assess if this is logical for him to not have money to offer or is he saving his money for someone else he wants more?