Michigan State Football: What will Adam Berghorst, Jase Bowen choose?

After being selected in the 2019 MLB Draft, will Adam Berghorst and Jase Bowen choose baseball over Michigan State football?

Not many kids get a chance to play a professional sport, let alone right out of high school, so you could imagine the decision facing Adam Berghorst and Jase Bowen this week weighs more than most.

To play professional baseball or report to campus this weekend for freshman camp with Michigan State football?

It’s not the easiest choice for two kids who were drafted right out of high school. Bowen went in the 11th round (No. 334 overall) to the Pittsburgh Pirates as a centerfielder and Berghorst was selected in the 14th round (No. 415) by the Texas Rangers as a pitcher.

While it might not seem like a tough decision since they weren’t “early-round” picks, it’s actually more difficult than assumed because of signing bonuses. In fact, only one 11th-round selection didn’t sign a contract after being drafted a year ago.

So what will each Spartan football signee do?

Mark Dantonio has been openly supportive of the two draftees, but he will have an opportunity to talk to each before they decide.

Bowen has a bright future both on the football field as well as the diamond. He is looked at as a kid who can play great defense in the outfield as well as bring an improving bat, with some pop, to the plate. However, being selected in the 11th round later than he expected and he may decide to play both sports at Michigan State for a few years and then revisit his stock after.

Berghorst may be more of a project on the diamond, but also has a bright future with his impressive arm. He drew scouts’ attention with his sub-1.00 ERA at the prep level and low-90s fastball, but could put off baseball for a few years to see where football, too, can get him.

If I were to guess where each would land — though neither have made decisions yet — I’d say that Bowen is probably leaning toward chasing his baseball dreams while Berghorst will likely remain a Spartan.

No matter what these two kids choose, they have bright futures and good problems on their hands.