Matt Ponatoski, Moeller QB Commit, Sets Sights on MLB Draft

Matt Ponatoski, a dual-sport athlete from Moeller High School known for his excellence in both football and baseball, has committed to join the Kentucky Wildcats as a quarterback. However, the upcoming MLB draft in July remains his primary focus. In a recent appearance on the "Over-Slot Baseball" podcast, Ponatoski expressed his ambition to become a professional baseball player "as fast as possible," placing his chances of entering the draft as "option 1a," with college football serving as a secondary choice.

Reports indicate that Ponatoski has skipped summer workouts with the Kentucky football program. His passion for baseball is evident, especially after his impressive performance on June 3, where he pitched five shutout innings, leading Moeller (24-6) to a 7-0 victory over Centerville (25-5) in the Division I regional final. This victory propelled the Crusaders to their 14th OHSAA state tournament, where they are set to face Perrysburg in the state semifinals on June 11.

Ponatoski's aspirations in baseball are particularly noteworthy, considering that the only Ohio high school player featured in MLB.com's top 200 draft prospects is Landon Thiel, a left-handed pitcher from Jackson High School. As he balances his commitments, Ponatoski continues to attract attention from both sports as he navigates his future.