Brophy senior Michael Horne has committed to attend and play baseball at Tufts University in Medford, Mass., outside of Boston.
“I am extremely excited to play college baseball,” said Horne. “It has been a goal of mine since I was a young player. It came into fruition when I came to Brophy. I knew if I worked hard and put everything into what I do, I could play college baseball. Committing was a dream come true for my family and I.”
Horne will play for Head Coach Bryan Stark, who took over the program last fall after 10 seasons at Harvard.
“The Jumbos commit to improving every day,” said Horne. “Coach Stark always had interesting questions. They promote everyone to work hard. It can be individualistic. If you don't have a cohesive bond among all the players on the field, you won't be successful.”
Horne will join Brophy classmate and soccer player Hastings Brislin, as well as former teammate Charlie Hazen, at the school.
“Charlie Hazen told me how great the program was and asked if I was looking into Tufts,” recalled Horne. “I got a text from Coach Stark, who was previously at Harvard. He asked me to give them a look. It was at the forefront of consideration, and it became clear it was the next home for me.”
Horne, who will study mechanical engineering, has been a two-year letterwinner for the Broncos. He has made seven appearances with one start this season with a 0-1 record. He went 2-1 with a save and a 0.00 ERA in seven appearances as a junior in helping the team to a Premier Region title. He was also a member of the National Honor Society.
“Playing for Brophy has meant everything,” said Horne. “I spend most of my time out here in the weight room and on the baseball field. It is the place where I can work hard and celebrate things such as a college commitment.”
He lists the save against nationally ranked Valley Christian in Las Vegas as his career highlight.
“To get the nod out of the bullpen in a 1-0 game against a lineup full of Division I commits, it was incredible,” said Horne. “I pitched well, and I had Brophy in front of me to pull off an incredible win.”
“It has been an absolute pleasure to coach Michael over the past four years,” said Head Coach Josh Garcia. “During that time, he has grown tremendously—not just as a baseball player, but as a competitor, a teammate, and a young man. Michael is one of the most disciplined pitchers I’ve had the opportunity to coach. He’s consistently committed to taking care of his arm and putting in the daily work required to master his craft. His focus, work ethic, and leadership have made a lasting impact on our program. I'm genuinely excited to see all that Michael will accomplish as he takes the next step in his journey at Tufts University. I have no doubt he will continue to thrive both on and off the field.
He will participate in the Brophy Signing Day event on Wednesday, April 23.