On Friday, Peyton Zabel of Pierre announced his decision for post high school career – he wants to go to college.
The Milwaukee Brewers drafted Zabel a month ago in the 19th round of the Major League Baseball draft. Prior to that, he had committed to playing both football and baseball at Augustana University in Sioux Falls.
After weighing both options for the past 30-days, Zabel finally announced his decision Friday via social media.
Zabel is recognized as one of the best young pitchers in the state of South Dakota. Last season, he helped lead Pierre’s American Legion team, Post-8, to a state championship. Zabel, who was also a star standout on the gridiron, led the Pierre Governors football team to a Class 11AA state title this past fall as well, having 30 touchdown passes on the year to add to his resume of 2017.
Next season, Zabel is expected to contribute immediately on both the football and baseball teams at Augustana University.
Augie will look to defend their recently acquired Division II National Baseball Championship in the spring.
As far as his professional career goes, Zabel could still get drafted by another Major League Baseball team again in the near future. He could once again be faced with a similar situation where he needs to examine the options of his college career and the opportunity to be a professional athlete.
