Left-hander Braden Alfano emerged as an ace for the Rochelle Hub varsity baseball team during his junior season, earning All-Conference First Team honors in the Interstate 8 with a 2.65 ERA while throwing over 31 innings.

Now a senior, Alfano will be a leading returner in the starting rotation this coming season. Alfano will also continue his career at the next level after announcing his decision to attend North Central College and play baseball for the Cardinals.

“I chose North Central College for a multitude of reasons,” Alfano said. “The first reason was the winning culture, not only within the baseball program, but throughout all of their athletic programs. I also really enjoyed my visits and having the opportunity to be around the baseball team. I’m really looking forward to competing collegiately for four more years. Playing baseball at Rochelle has taught me that you will be rewarded if you’re willing to put in the hard work.”

Alfano struck out 41 batters for the Hubs during his junior season, adding one home run and seven RBIs on offense. The 6-foot-1 left-hander has spent over three years with both the RTHS baseball and football programs, earning All-Conference First Team honors in the Interstate 8 during his senior football season this fall.

Alfano, who has pitched and played first base for the Hubs, said he’s interested in potentially pursuing an education in exercise science and business.

“I appreciate Braden for his hard work and contributions to the RTHS baseball program,” head coach Jarrod Reynolds said. “I’m excited for Braden to continue his baseball career at North Central. Braden’s a great competitor and a bulldog on the mound. The sky is the limit for him.”