Jack Lausch: Dual Sport Athlete Chooses Baseball and Gets Drafted

Jack Lausch, known for his athletic prowess at Brother Rice High School, originally planned to play college football at Northwestern University. Although recruited by Notre Dame for baseball, he opted for Northwestern after receiving a football scholarship offer. Despite this commitment, he never entirely ruled out baseball. Lausch stated, “Baseball was always in the back of my mind.” He decided to see how far football would take him, keeping baseball as a possible future option.

Lausch’s decision to keep the baseball option open paid off. This past spring, he joined Northwestern’s baseball team after a two-year hiatus. On July 12, the Cincinnati Reds selected him in the 17th round of the MLB draft, marking his transition to professional baseball with the 512th overall pick. “It’s a dream come true,” Lausch expressed. “To have a shot to keep improving and strive to become a big leaguer is all anyone can ask for.” He recalled that moment as one of validation for years of dedicated hard work, confirming his efforts had been worthwhile.

Lausch was hopeful about being chosen on the second day of the draft, which includes 20 rounds. The anticipation was intense, but the Reds ended the suspense by offering Lausch a spot. “Waiting by the phone, unsure when or who it would be, made the moment nerve-wracking,” he explained. “Getting picked was amazing, allowing us to celebrate with family and friends.” Brother Rice coach Sean McBride knew Lausch might eventually return to baseball. “What a journey,” McBride remarked. “His first love seemed to be football, but he kept baseball as an option. This defines the special competitor he is.”

Throughout his redshirt sophomore season at Northwestern University in 2024-25, Lausch excelled in both football and baseball, starting 10 games as a quarterback and participating in 43 of 44 games in baseball. By summer, his decision to fully commit to baseball solidified. “I needed to focus entirely on baseball or risk falling behind,” stated Lausch. “Leaving football was hard due to the relationships and commitment, but my current opportunity made it worthwhile.”

In recent months, Lausch led Northwestern’s baseball team with an impressive .312 batting average, 16 home runs, and 41 RBIs. His selection coincided with a fantastic week for Brother Rice baseball alumni. Fellow graduate Zion Rose was drafted by the Kansas City Royals, while Luke Lawrence signed with the Chicago White Sox, and Brady Cunningham won the MLB High School Home Run Derby. Now attending rookie camp in Arizona, Lausch looks forward to his first minor league assignment. “This is a moment to savor,” he shared. “While I want to enjoy it, my goal is to prove myself and demonstrate my capabilities.”