Daily Southtown
Pat Disabato
After playing up on varsity as a freshman at Payton, Brokemond decided to compete in the Hitters Spring League in Wisconsin, which coincided with Illinois’ season.
“I thought the competition was better than in high school and it would allow me to work on my skills,” Brokeman said.
When his family moved after his junior year, Brokemond transferred to Brother Rice and decided to play high school baseball again.
The Miami of Ohio recruit hasn’t missed a beat or — for that matter — many baseballs.
The transition back to the high school season and playing for the Crusaders has been as smooth as Brokemond’s overall game.
“He never missed a day during our offseason stuff,” Brother Rice coach Sean McBride said. “He came right in and was here every morning.
“He’s an intelligent kid who gets it at this age, which is rare. He’s taken on more of a vocal leadership role and has been our most consistent player. He’s a great kid.”
And a great ballplayer.
Brokemond is batting .517 with 10 stolen bases, six doubles, three homers and 20 RBIs.
He credited his personal hitting coach Tom Barnard for some of his success.
While the 6-foot-1 Brokemond’s skills suggest he’s more suited for one of the top three spots in the batting order, where his speed can be better utilized, McBride has the right-handed hitter batting cleanup.
