One WPIAL title, two Section 1-AAA titles and three district legion titles later, Franklin Regional's Art Yerecic has received a partial scholarship to attend Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania after turning down the likes of Division I contenders Pitt, Duquesne and LaSalle. 'They had what I wanted,' Yerecic said. 'It's a baseball town, and that's what I like.' Slippery Rock, a Division II program, has won the PSAC West title the last eight years and has made appearances in the College World Series two of the last four years. 'I've always played in a competitive program.' said Yerecic, whose team captured section titles in his junior and senior year, and a WPIAL championship this past season. 'They bring in the big players because of their tradition.' Slippery Rock scouted Yerecic as a pitcher this past season, as he racked up some pretty impressive numbers on the mound for the Panthers. He went 8-1, collecting a 1.58 earned run average and struck out 30 batters in 31 innings. Yerecic is hoping to move into the starting rotation as a freshman. 'They are losing over half of their starters,' Yerecic said. 'I want to be able to contribute my first season.' When Yerecic wasn't on the mound, he started at center field and was a pivotal part of Franklin's offense. 'He's more of a gap hitter with some power,' said Franklin Regional head coach Larry Wayman. 'We could use him to get the offense going.' Yerecic was brought up to the varsity halfway through his freshman season and earned a spot in the starting rotation his sophomore season. 'Art was a power pitcher,' Wayman said. 'Over the years Art developed into a pitcher, not just a thrower.' 'I was so nervous,' Yerecic said. 'You can't relax at the varsity level.' Yerecic earned his first victory against Bethel Park when he collected six strikeouts. 'I was proud of myself' Yerecic said. 'I learned so much playing with the varsity team.' In Murrysville's Legion program, Art played under coach Bob Bozutto. 'He's more of a fundamental coach and will let you know about your mistakes,' Yerecic said. 'He really helped my mental approach to the game.' Yerecic will be majoring in business administration or marketing at Slippery Rock in the fall. He hopes to continue his dream of playing baseball as long as he can but seems to have his priorities in order. 'It would be a dream to play in the pros, but I can't depend on that.' Yerecic said. 'But maybe someday I'll get to prove myself there (major leagues).'

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