Lake Minneola High School junior Dylan Montrowl has been a steady presence on the mound and in the batter’s box this spring, helping the Hawks compile a strong 16-5 record while showcasing the work ethic and poise that have defined his 11-year baseball journey.

The 6-foot-7, 210-pound right-hander has logged a team-leading 45 strikeouts in 27⅔ innings pitched, allowing just 15 earned runs. At the plate, he is hitting .296 with eight hits and nine RBIs. Dylan is a Class of 2027 two-way prospect who plays first base, outfield and pitches. He’s helped anchor a Lake Minneola team noted for its defense, hitting and tight-knit chemistry under head coach Dr. Kerry Whetro who has the Hawks sitting at 17-5 and ranked as a top 50 team in Florida.

Dylan first picked up a bat at age 6. His father, Steve Montrowl, and older brother, Brady Montrowl, introduced him to the game, and he fell in love with it immediately.

“My parents Steve and Ashlea Montrowl are my biggest role models,” he says. “They taught me the values and qualities needed to succeed. My dad coached me throughout my childhood and taught me the skills. My brother Brady is another big role model. Learning the game with him and being able to play together will always be one of my favorite memories. My mom is my biggest cheerleader!”

One of those cherished memories came during his sophomore season, when Dylan shared the field with Brady during the latter’s senior year.

“It was great being on the field at the same time,” Dylan recalls. His all-time favorite baseball moment, however, came when Brady joined his younger brother’s team for a game and the two hit home runs in the same inning.

Brady earned a scholarship and now plays for UCF where he’s currently in his freshman season.

Baseball has also instilled lasting lessons for Dylan

“Baseball has taught me skills such as hard work and perseverance, which I will use throughout the rest of my career and life,” he says.”

A piece of advice from a coach has stuck with him through the ups and downs. Coach Steven Crabtree once told him: “Never change who you are even though the highs and lows.” Dylan says. The message resonated because it came from someone who genuinely wanted the best for him, helping him push through challenges and it’s paid off dividends.

As an underclassman, Dylan faced one of his biggest tests: entering high-pressure pitching situations with limited experience while his team counted on him. He credits the ability to pitch during those moments which have had a profound impact on how his game has developed.

For younger players who look up to him, Dylan says “Don’t compare yourself to others. Use their success as motivation to work harder.”

Dylan also gives back to the community through volunteer work with The Miracle League, New Beginnings and Building Blocks Ministries. For Dylan, it’s always about more than just himself it’s about giving back to the community. It’s always rewarding to give back to the community, there’s nothing like it,” he says.

Academically, the Dylan carries a 4.0 unweighted and 5.0 weighted GPA. He plans to study electrical engineering in college and hopes to continue his baseball career at the next level just like his brother.

Dylan enjoys playing for Lake Minneola, calling it “one of the best baseball schools in the area” and a privilege to compete alongside talented teammates.

“This year’s team includes many of the guys I’ve grown up playing with and enjoy being around,” Dylan says. “The team’s chemistry has led us to have success on the field and the boys are like brothers.”

He’s not wrong either. Lake Minneola has a great team such as Fabian Antonsanti, Colson May have had massive years at the plate while junior Chase Daugherty and senior Maddux Bultema have assisted at the plate and the mound. It takes a full team and the Hawks are certainly putting the work in.

When he’s not on the diamond, Dylan can be found at the beach, golfing, playing pickleball or hanging out with friends.

Dylan continues to be one of the most exciting young prospects Lake County who’s drawing plenty of interest from colleges and universities. Be sure to keep an eye on this young man as the playoffs approach.