If you take Route 58 out of Ashland, Ohio and head north for about 50 minutes, you will end up in a small town called Amherst. While driving through Amherst, formally known as the “sandstone district,” you will come across Amherst Steele High School.

This high school produced one of the most productive hitters and ground-covering outfielders in Ashland University baseball’s history. Evan Melendez, the 5’10” senior outfielder, has become a staple of AU baseball over the last year.

Melendez was a two-year varsity starter for the Amherst Steele Comets, also getting some playing time as a sophomore. As a senior, Melendez received All-Lorain County honors as voted by the Lorain County Baseball Coaches Association. Melendez was modest about his high school playing career, but that is the kind of personal trait that defines him.

While in high school, Melendez took part in Buckeye Scout camps, which is where area scouts were able to see his talents on the field.

After having conversations with scouts and coaches, including Ashland University head baseball coach, John Schaly, Melendez said he narrowed down his college picks to Ashland or John Carroll.

When asked why he chose AU, Melendez said, “AU had a better baseball program; it is close to home and I wanted to be a part of something special.”

Melendez is batting .315 this season with 23 hits, 15 runs scored and a .955 fielding percentage.

At age 23, Melendez will be wrapping up his final season here at AU.

“It was a fun experience, it had its ups and downs,” Melendez said. “I learned a lot that I can teach and pass on to other kids.”

He went on to say how happy he is with his baseball career so far, but wants to put the icing on the cake by going to the World Series.

Melendez is majoring in marketing, with a minor in entrepreneurship. Upon graduating he would like to start his own business, or something relating to baseball recruiting. As for future advice to AU baseball players, Melendez said: “Always work hard because there will always be an opportunity, be prepared for it.”