With his junior baseball season underway, Andrean right handed pitcher Ivan Mastalski has one less thing to worry about this year.
The reason?
The Class of 2025 pitcher already has his college commitment out of the way, as the 6-foot-4-inch, 225-pound pitcher has committed to Indiana University.
“It feels like a dream come true to be committed. The Indiana University coaching staff really set them apart for me. We had very much in common and see eye to eye on how baseball should be played,” Mastalski told Indiana Preps.
The commitment can be traced back to the first time he ever played on a ball diamond at the age of 4.
“MY parents put me in T-ball when I was 4, and I’ve been in it ever since. I love the big games and moments that come with pitching,” Mastalski said.
Over the years, he has established himself as one of the premiere pitchers not only in the “Region,” but across the Hoosier State.
“My success came as a real surprise to me considering how long I’ve been playing for. I attribute my success to my parents helping and their support,” he said.
While some may feel pressure on the mound, Mastalski admits he does not, and, he actually welcomes it.
“I don’t even feel pressure. Most of the time I just want to go out there and get the job done for my team. I have gained velocity and improved my mentality on the mound,” Mastalski said.
Doing his job is a major reason why the Fighting 59ers are off to a 7-0 start on the year. Against Kankakee Valley on April 9, Mastalski picked up the win, throwing five innings, striking out six, walking one, allowing one hit and one earned run.
“My goal for this season is to make another state run. My team has tremendous potential this year with our pitching staff and hitting,” Mastalski said.