Aiden VanDeHatert Commits to DBU to Continue His Baseball Career

Aiden VanDeHatert, a left-handed pitcher at Lincoln Trail College, has officially committed to continue his baseball career at Dallas Baptist University after his upcoming graduation in May. VanDeHatert's impressive growth and dedication on and off the field have earned him this opportunity to compete at the next level. During his time at Lincoln Trail, VanDeHatert has shown substantial development under the guidance of LTC Head Coach Collin Maynard. Coach Maynard highlighted VanDeHatert's growth, saying, "Aiden has seen substantial growth during his time at LTC. Up to this point, he has gained nearly 5 MPH on his fastball since first stepping on campus, and I expect even more to come this year. He has also worked diligently to develop his secondary pitches to keep hitters off balance."

Coach Maynard also praised VanDeHatert's readiness for the challenges ahead. "I believe Aiden's time at Lincoln Trail has prepared him well for the challenges he will face at Dallas Baptist University. He has learned to face adversity head-on, and I know that Aiden will never back down from a challenge." Looking toward VanDeHatert's future at DBU, Coach Maynard expressed his confidence in his former player's potential to make an immediate impact. "I envision that Aiden will have a chance to step into an immediate impact role at Dallas Baptist University. I believe that he has the ability to make an impact in their program, and I know his work ethic will continue just as it was here."

Beyond his on-field abilities, VanDeHatert's leadership has also been a key asset to Lincoln Trail's program. "Aiden's presence and leadership leave a large impact with our team. He is always pushing his teammates to work hard and get the most out of themselves. He is also one of the loudest guys in the dugout and is always the first one to help pick up a teammate."

For VanDeHatert, the decision to commit to DBU was driven by the school's strong baseball culture and coaching staff. "What influenced me the most to commit to Dallas Baptist was the culture and coaching staff. Dallas Baptist has built a culture of success that I am excited to be a part of and continue to help them win. They also have an experienced coaching staff that I trust to put me in great positions to succeed and develop into the player that I can become."

VanDeHatert also credits his experience at Lincoln Trail for preparing him for the next level. "Playing at Lincoln Trail has prepared me for the next level with the coaching I have received and the competition we play. Our pitching coach, Coach Wells, has been able to help me develop as a player and on the mental side of pitching. This has helped me grow as a player and person. We also play great competition throughout the year in the GRAC, preparing me for what is coming next."

Looking to the future, VanDeHatert has clear goals. "My long-term goals in baseball are to play on the biggest stage in the MLB. Dallas Baptist fits into that vision by the development and great track record that they have had with the MLB Draft. The coaches are very experienced and can help develop me into the best baseball player that I can become."

VanDeHatert will finish his final season at Lincoln Trail College before heading to Dallas Baptist University, where he is expected to continue his journey toward reaching his full potential in the sport of baseball.

VandeHatert's advice to upcoming Statesmen is "Trust the process, success is not going to happen in a day." While his advice to his other teammates who are in the recruiting process to "Trust your gut and pick the program that best fits your goals."