Hilton's Natolitano going D1

Hilton left-hander Nick Natolitano has officially committed to attend and play baseball for the Boston College Eagles next fall after completing his senior year. "They were the college that fit me best and had the best offer," said Natolitano.

The senior pitcher finished his junior season with a 4-4 record striking out 50 batters in 38 innings of work for the Cadets. He has twice played on the Empire State Games scholastic team.

"I was also looking at West Virginia and St. Bonaventure. Last year I got my name out and hopefully I can go as far as possible with a baseball career. They told me I would probably be a starter by the time I'm a junior and in long and middle relief until then."

Natolitano plans on majoring in Business Management while at Boston College, whose graduation rate for baseball players is 100% since head coach Pete Hughes took over five years ago.

He is eligible for major league baseball's amateur draft, which takes place in June 2004, but Natolitano still wants to head off to experience college life. "Unless I get a really, really good offer, I plan on going to college next fall."