Harriton pitcher Jack Kochanowicz taken by LA Angels in third round of MLB Draft

Bryn Mawr >> Jack Kochanowicz, who graduated from Harriton in June, had a memorable baseball career for the Rams, as he was a member of a Central League championship team his sophomore year, and eventually committed to play baseball at the University of Virginia.
This spring, Kochanowicz compiled eye-popping numbers for the Rams, posting a 6-0 record with a microscopic 0.40 ERA, allowing only 11 hits in 45 innings while striking out 79. And on June 4, he was drafted by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim with the 92nd overall pick in the third round of the MLB Draft.
“I couldn’t believe this was really happening,” said Kochanowicz. “I thought I might get that call but I wasn’t sure. I was thrilled. Getting drafted is amazing but I know that I have a lot of work ahead of me to reach my ultimate goal of making it and staying in the Major Leagues.”
“It was a very emotional experience for me when Jack’s name was called by the Angles,” said Harriton baseball head coach Scott Kurzinsky. “I was fortunate enough to be sitting with Jack and his wonderful family when the Angles selected him, a life changing moment I will never forget and am honored I was a part of.”

Kochanowicz said, “I first thought I had a chance at playing pro ball when strong Division 1 schools wanted me to be part of their program. UVA was always my first choice. Clemson was another great option.”
Kochanowicz then knew he had one large decision looming – take his step to reaching the pinnacle of his sport or head south to the University of Virginia. After careful consideration and long discussions, Kochanowicz decided to take his first step toward the Major League and head to Arizona where he would sign his first professional contract.
“It was a difficult decision when choosing between pro ball and the University of Virginia,” said Kochanowicz. “The UVA coaches have been very supportive and being a Cavalier is an amazing opportunity in itself. But, starting my pro career right now is what I feel is the right thing for me. I am looking forward to being 100 percent focused on being the best pitcher I can be.”
Dreaming of this opportunity since he began playing when he was a child, Kochanowicz started with Lower Merion Little League before advancing to travel ball with Lower Merion Lions. From there, Kochanowicz had many stops including All Star Baseball Academy, Whiz Kids, Philly Bandits and Houston Banditos.
Kochaowicz also swings a potent bat. for Harriton this spring, he batted .370, with 13 RBIs and 11 runs scored, and displayed a keen batting eye, drawing 23 walks for an on-base percentage of .587.