As he puts the finishing touches on a decorated prep career, Austin Marsh is anxiously awaiting his next climb on the baseball ladder.The Wright City senior recently signed his letter of intent to play for Greenville College in Illinois.“I found a really good community at Greenville when I went for my visit,” said Marsh. “I had a really good time, and thought, this is where I want to be. It had everything that I looked for in a college.”Marsh was searching for an established baseball program but was also focused on small class and campus size. He had considered a few other schools, but the Christian environment at Greenville was an easy sell for the infielder pursuing a longtime goal.“I’ve always wanted to play college baseball,” said Marsh. “I started putting more effort into it, and it’s paid off. I can definitely see the differences between when I started, and where I am now.”Last season Marsh batted .333 with 20 hits and seven RBIs, while scoring 13 runs and collecting five stolen bases. His numbers have improved this spring, as Marsh leads the team in severeal categories. He’s batting .485 with 32 hits, including 14 doubles, and 20 RBIs. Coach Shannon Wells says it’s Marsh’s intangibles that will carry him the farthest.He’s a hard worker and is very coachable,” said Wells. “He hits well, has got a good eye for the ball and is athletic.”He spent much of his time at first base before switching to shortstop and even pitching this spring. To this point, Marsh has tossed 19 innings, sporting a 3.20 ERA. He’s struck out 27 batters and walked just five. While it’s more recently developed, he actually sees his ability on the mound as one of his stronger skill sets.“It’s kind of different, because I haven’t pitched much, but I feel like pitching is one of my strong points,” said Marsh. “I have a good arm that helps me pitch faster and helps me with my curve ball.”Marsh will be joining a Greenville team that has gone 20-18 so far this season. A member of the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, the Panthers are a NCAA Division III program.Greenville first spotted Marsh, who also plays for the St. Charles Capitals, during select action in the offseason.“When I played outfield in the SLABA Senior Showcase, they said they saw my ability in my arm,” said Marsh. “It sparked their interest, and that’s why they contacted me.”As a first-year coach, Wells saw Marsh as a prime player to build this year’s team around, immediately recognizing his passion for the game.“His abilities are there,” said Wells. “As long as he’s willing to learn, he’ll be fine.”MARSH INKS COMMITMENTDerrick Forsythe Photo.