Jake Anderson battled back from injuries, to play baseball at Millikin University

Just when Mahomet-Seymour’s Jake Anderson was ready to step back onto the field with his fellow Bulldogs, he found himself grappling with the reality that his senior baseball season may not be viable. 

Anderson, who began playing for the Mahomet Diamond Dogs when he was 9-years old, had sights of capturing a 2020 IHSA regional title with his teammates.

The group of close-knit seniors had accomplished that feat during their eighth-grade IESA season.

Statistically, Anderson’s high school career did not pan out the way he thought it would, though.

As a sophomore, the third baseman appeared in 14 games, scoring eight runs for the Bulldogs. 

Then his junior season was cut short while he recovered from surgery. Once Anderson was ready to step up to the plate again in the summer of 2019, he dislocated his knee. 

Battling back to demonstrate what he could do began to hit full stride last fall as Anderson began to catch the attention of coaches at Millikin University during several showcases.

By the time Jan. 24 rolled around, Anderson had committed to continue his athletic and academic career with the Big Blue.

“I want to be someone who works hard and who lets my actions speak louder than words,” he said.

The one thing that has remained certain for the 5-foot-10 senior through uncertainty: sticking together.

“I have played baseball with some of my teammates and friends for 10 years,” Anderson said. “Some of my favorite memories are with my teammates. 

“I have learned something valuable from literally every coach that I have had. I learned about the game, taking care of myself, hard work and dedication from my coaches. They have supported me and so has my family, through the good and bad.”