Early Decision

I think it is too early to give up on D1 but I would start to build a list of target schools in other divisions. He may realize that he'd be happier at another school in a lower division. Other divisions might be slower to respond and likely won't offer until the summer, but at least he'll have some conversations going and get a feel for schools to target. This summer I watched a lot of 2023 parents trying to pivot in August and September and missed a ton of showcase opportunities. Most of them are still trying to figure it out.

Now is the time you need to start figuring out your strategy for the summer. If it were me, I'd focus on playing in the big July tournaments and plan to showcase/camp in June and possibly August.

@Ster posted:

They have not told him yet.   But, they haven't responded to any calls or text messages.   The head coach did respond to an email that my son sent, and all he said was the the pitching coach will be in contact with him going forward.    The impression that we have is that they were very impressed with my son, but had already offered a couple of other players.   I guess is that they told those players that they had to have an answer or they were moving on to offer my son, but both players committed.    I am under the assumption that they don't want to tell him that the game is over in case something happens, but for the most part I think that their silence is sending the message.

Sounds very similar to a Northern P5 school that was recruiting my son.  They were in constant contact all through his sophomore year.  He is a catcher and all of a sudden we heard they signed a kid who had decommitted from another P5 school and the calls and texts pretty much stopped.  Had been in contact with a mid-major DI at the same time.  Visited the summer after his junior year and committed in early August right before his senior year.  This is his 3rd year.  Started since he was a freshman and has never once regretted his decision.  I know you have heard this, but, yes, go where you are wanted!  As soon as a school "ghosts" you, they were more than likely stringing you along until something better came along.  As for timelines, for his size, I definitely think he has a chance for some DI interest yet.  If he has a breakout spring his junior year, many doors will start to open.  Keep in mind, P5 is not the end all.  I know a lot of P5 schools that have had horrible years and kids transferring all over the place.  Good luck!

@TerribleBPthrower posted:

Could be. My son saw my screenname a few weeks ago and laughed hysterically. Then gave me a fist bump and said good one.

I wish my kids would have said "Good one."  All I got were three eyerolls and one added "Seriously?"

@Ster posted:

Are we too early to give up on D1 programs is really what I'm asking?   

@Ster,

Not necessarily for mid D1 programs.

Here are the ABC's on D1 recruiting. Might also fall under D2.

"A" recruit, you are the guy, they want you and they will make it happen. They will make a great offer.

"B" recruit, you are the guy if A says no. Then they will focus on getting you to committ.

"C" recruit, if all else fails you are the guy or perhaps a back up. You will know from the offer how much they really need you.

I do not know enough to give advice on D3, HA. But I can tell you, if your son is aiming for P5 programs in your state, that's tough. More than likely they have more than enough 2024's that have committed.

If your state has JUCO programs or neighboring states, you can committ and still explore other options. As suggested, your son can attend, fulfill his transfer credits and then leave after 1 or 2 years and play. Many mid D1 programs rely on JUCO even with the portal being available.