O’Laughlin Looks Into Another Field

NORTHRIDGE —  Among the reasons J.J. O’Laughlin chose Illinois over Houston, California, UCLA and USC was the Illini’s two-pronged recruiting pitch.

John Mackovic recruited for Illinois football. Augie Garrido recruited for Illinois baseball.

O’Laughlin never played baseball at Illinois, choosing to concentrate on improving his standing during spring football.

But now, more than three years after he starred as third baseman and outfielder for Glendora High, O’Laughlin is considering resuming his career at Cal State Northridge. “It’s something I’m going to look into,” O’Laughlin said. “I know they have a great program here. If they can use me, great, then I’ll play.”

O’Laughlin said he plans to meet with baseball Coach Bill Kernen after football season.