Worcester State's All-Conference outfielder's summer plans changed Saturday night as Jake Ryan (Northbridge, Mass.) was called up by Dan Generelli of the Wachusett Dirt Dawgs with an opportunity on the other line to play in the Futures Collegiate Baseball League (FCBL).

The FCBL is a highly competitive collegiate league that is made up New England residents or athletes from a New England-based NAIA or NCAA sanctioned institution. (http://thefuturesleague.com/view/futuresleague/futures-collegiate-baseball-league-13/history)

"Being able to play in a league such as the FCBL for a team like the Dirt Dawgs is a great feeling and honor to go along with an incredible experience itself,"  commented Ryan.

This past season with the Lancers, Ryan led the team with a .338 batting average, .423 on base percentage, and a .500 slugging percentage. The junior tallied 48 hits, 13 doubles, five triples, 21 RBI, and a team-high 10 stolen bases. Defensively, Ryan posted a .955 fielding percentage in 132 total chances, primarily playing in the outfield.

"Playing at Worcester State has prepared me for such an opportunity like this one because of the work we've put in day in and out throughout the years I've been a Lancer,"  stated Ryan.

As one of the top dogs on the Lancers' baseball team, Ryan hopes to strengthen his hitting tactics while on the roster of the Dirt Dawgs. "I'm hoping to work on my swing and overall approach as a hitter," said Ryan. This summer, Ryan will get the opportunity to face very good pitching night in and night out and take batting practice nearly every day.

Ryan has received solid, consistent advice over the years in which he plays by, "I live day in and day out and play every game like it's my last." Ryan will take this experience and make the best of his time with the Dirt Dawgs in preparation for his final year with the Blue and Gold.