Rutgers baseball’s Ryan Lasko is providing a reminder of his importance
Over the last few years, few players have been more important to Rutgers success than Ryan Lasko. The New Jersey native has gone from a player who only received one collegiate offer to an MLB draft prospect. As the Scarlet Knights have gotten off to a 13-11 start, Lasko is again proving his importance.
Through 93 at-bats, the Jackson Memorial High School product has posted a .292 batting average with 17 runs batted in. He is third on the team in total bases with 46 and has added ten extra-base hits to his resume. While Lasko has only hit four home runs, his speed makes life difficult for the opposition.
RYAN LASKO FOR THE LEAD IN THE 8TH!!
His second big fly of the game puts us up 7-6 on UConn!!#TCD pic.twitter.com/Aoo7tiz9Iw
— Rutgers Baseball (@RutgersBaseball) March 26, 2023
In 24 games, Lasko has stolen eight bases and not been caught once. He is only five short of tying his career high. In his third season with the Scarlet Knights, he has been an on-base machine and is second on the team in walks with 17.
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Due to his play, Lasko has the chance to join a special group. He is currently projected to be an early-round pick in the 2023 MLB draft. If that were to happen, he would be Rutgers’ fourth-ever first-round draft pick and the first since Todd Frazier in 2007. Some scouts see him as a five-tool player, and he should generate plenty of interest on draft day.
In the lead early!
Ryan Lasko and Cam Love with back-to-back run-scoring hits to give us a 2-0 lead in the third!#TCD pic.twitter.com/rPCJDDQfLM
— Rutgers Baseball (@RutgersBaseball) March 17, 2023
During his time at Rutgers, Lasko’s offense has improved every year. He can hit for average and power while causing havoc on the basepaths. However, his best traits are his athleticism and defense. Lasko’s above-average speed should allow him to stay in center field for the long term. Right now, Rutgers is benefiting from his unique skillset.
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While the season is far from over, Lasko has picked up where he left off last year. On a team with high expectations, he has set himself apart and shown why he has a bright future ahead.
