Daniel Ensign '18 Recruiting Profile

My name is Daniel Ensign and I’m a senior at Barrington High School in Barrington, Illinois.  My club team is the Illinois Indians.

I am an athlete.  Sports have always been fun for me, but baseball is my passion.  I am a right handed pitcher, outfielder and have also played some at second base.  I started out as a pitcher and an infielder, but one of my coaches early on saw that because of my speed I could be an outfielder. I was the fastest kid on the team and could get to the ball better than anyone.  Since then outfield has been a great substitute for when I’m not pitching.  It has helped me get faster and gain more experience all over the field.  I am physically agile and have the ability to play many different positions.

I am a hard worker.  Whether it’s on the field or off, I always give 100%.  Ever since I can remember, my dad came up with a saying that we use almost all the time.  He’ll say, “Hard work,” and I finish with “pays off.” I work hard in the classroom and take my work very seriously.  I am committed to year round training that includes a strength and conditioning program, working with a pitching and a hitting coach.  No matter what the situation, I’m dedicated to giving it my all.

I’m steady on the mound.  I’ve been pitching for as long as I can remember and believe that my mentality is a strength that I bring to the mound.  I’m versatile and can adapt no matter the situation.  I’ve been a starter, a reliever and a closer.   My coach looks for opportunities to put me in in difficult situations, because he knows that I can deliver.  Not too long after I turned 15, I was called up to pitch for the 18U team.  I came in to close out the bottom of the 7th when we were up by one run with no one on and no outs.  I got two strikeouts and then got the last batter to ground out with bases loaded.

I’m patient at the plate.   This past year, I’ve dedicated myself to improving my swing.  I really worked on breaking down the mechanics of my swing, and putting in the effort to make changes to get better.  I have a good read for pitches and once I get on base, with my speed, I can often score.

I enjoy serving.  I am a small group leader for 4 and 5 year olds every Sunday morning at Willow Creek Community Church.  Working with younger kids is a lot of fun and I love being able to lead them into the way of Christ.  My faith is something that is very important to me because I know that with God you can do anything.