Gabe Nelson '26 Recruiting Profile

My name is Gabe Nelson. I will be graduating from high school in 2026. I am a great student and last semester I had a 3.69 gpa. I have been playing baseball since I was five years old, and the game has shaped who I am today. One of my favorite memories is starting as the pitcher in the 2022 USSSA State Championship game—and winning it. That moment was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and love for the game.

Baseball has taught me invaluable lessons: mental toughness, discipline, teamwork, and resilience. I am passionate about the sport, and my favorite part of the game is hitting—there is nothing like the thrill of seeing the ball soar to the fence.

As a left-handed pitcher and first baseman, I embrace my role on the team. But no matter the position, I will play wherever I am needed to help my team succeed. Over the years, I have also played catcher and outfielder, utilizing my strong arm to make powerful, on-target throws. My biggest strength is my levelheaded, dependable presence on the mound. I thrive under pressure, staying focused on each pitch, adjusting when needed, and challenging hitters. My favorite pitch is the change-up—I love how it drops just beneath the bat at the last second. If a hitter times it well, I take it as a learning opportunity, adjusting my approach to keep them guessing.

Leadership is an important part of my role. I lead warmups, encourage my teammates, and set the tone for hard work and determination. Failure has been one of my greatest teachers—when I fall short, I analyze my mistakes, adjust, and come back stronger. Growth happens in those moments, and I embrace every opportunity to improve.

Athletics has given me so much more than just skills on the field. It has allowed me to form friendships, travel across the Midwest, and experience incredible moments—like winning a state championship with my team, Ames Storm. When I first joined the team, I did not know anyone, and I was nervous. But through baseball, I built strong friendships and gained confidence in myself.

Beyond competition, athletics has also strengthened my family bond. My parents, grandparents, and sister have been my biggest supporters, attending every game and cheering me on. The game has given us shared memories that I will always treasure.

I also value giving back to my community. Through baseball, I have had the opportunity to volunteer at The Miracle Field, a league for individuals with special needs, and serve meals at Food at First, our local food kitchen. Seeing the impact sports can have on others has been inspiring.

My baseball goals are clear:

1. Have fun.
2. Play college baseball.
3. Win a high school and college championship.

To achieve these, I remain committed to year-round training, strength and conditioning, mental preparation, proper nutrition, and planned rest.

A fun fact about me—I am related to Hall of Fame pitcher Bob Feller of the Cleveland Indians. He is my second cousin, thrice removed. I proudly wear #19 in his honor and hope to continue the family legacy by pitching at a high level.

Baseball is more than just a game to me—it’s a passion, a challenge, and a way of life. I am excited to see where this journey takes me next.