At 6-foot-6, Dave Jercha possesses impressive physical tools that drew the interest of Indiana State baseball coach Rick Heller.
"Coach Heller's into player development," the Portage senior first baseman said. "He really likes my potential. He thinks I can get to the point where I can be a good middle of the lineup guy for them."
After attending a camp at Indiana State a few weeks ago, Jercha was offered a scholarship during a visit to the Terre Haute campus Monday. He made his verbal commitment to play for the Sycamores Wednesday, capping a courtship that began last school year and continued during this summer, when Jercha played travel ball for APEX.
"I had a decent high school season, but it was really important for me to have a good season during the summer to get more interest," Jercha said. "I'm excited to be playing for Indiana State. They're a great team in a good conference. I can't wait to play at the next level. It's a dream come true for me."
Jercha is expected to have a chance to play right away with the Sycamores' current first baseman graduating after this season.
"They like him obviously because of his upside," Portage coach Tim Pirowski said. "He certainly passes the eye test. He has a lot of tools to work with -- 6-6, lefty stick, quick hands. He's going to grow into his body. When he's on, he looks amazing. He looks like a big-time D-I guy. His best baseball is still ahead of him."
Jercha is the second Indian in as many seasons to be headed to a Division I school. Tony Cheky is a freshman at Michigan State. Senior Gabe Acevedo is also expected to sign at that level.
"It's exciting for us," Pirowski said. "It's good for the program and good for the kids. It's created a buzz that there are good baseball players in Portage."
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