OF Cole Latimer (DeKalb, 2026) is one of the premier two-sport athletes in the state, boasting tremendous ability both on the baseball field and on the gridiron as a quarterback. He was a key piece for a talented DeKalb squad a year ago, helping lead them into our Power 25 as one of the top teams in the state. Now in his final year, he will surely be looking to help lead the Barbs to another successful year before he heads off to Northern Illinois.

It’s unique to see an athlete commit to play two sports in college, but that is exactly what Latimer did when he decided to stay local and represent the Huskies. Currently the No. 62 ranked player in Illinois, he’s a talented outfielder that has routinely shown well for our staff - boasting a strong right-handed swing with exit velocities around 104 mph and an unsurprisingly strong arm from the outfield (T92 mph). Also a high-level quarterback, it will be incredibly fun to follow him in the coming years in two promising programs for the Huskies. 

We recently had the chance to talk to Latimer about his recruitment process and more, found below. 

Our Q&A 

Prep Baseball: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Cole: All I ever expected was just an opportunity to play the game at the next level. Thankfully I was able to get that and in both sports (football and baseball). 

PB: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?

C: Not at all. I was willing to go as far as possible or as close as possible. I was just looking for the best opportunity and was able to get that in my hometown. 

PB: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Where did the school you committed to first see you play?

C: The recruiting process started for baseball after my sophomore year when some coaches reached out and wanted to follow me over the summer. NIU was able to see me play in a few tournaments. 

PB: What do you like most about the program you chose, and what were the key factors in making your decision?

C: The family atmosphere drew me in ever since I was around the football team since being a little kid. Coach Hammock and Copeland are building a special thing there and I am really looking forward to being a part of it. Being able to play in front of my hometown again is something i’m looking forward to. 

PB: Who is the best player you have faced in your state? What about them makes for a tough opponent?

C: Jack Wheeler (Morris, 2025). He hits the ball well. 

PB: At what point in your career did you realize you were a college-caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?

C: Ever since I picked up the football and baseball I knew it could take me a long way. 

PB: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?

C: If you ever think you're working hard, you're not. Always someone out there that’s out working you. 

PB: What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?

C: 2024-25 high school spring break trip. Beating two top 20 teams in Prep Baseball’s rankings while being unranked. 

PB: Preview your high school team's season for us. How do you feel your team will be?

C: We will be young but sneaky dangerous. Gonna be the underdog in every game and looking forward to it.

PB: How did the Future Games and the Illinois State Games affect your recruitment process? Did you receive more attention following the events?

C: I heard from a few coaches after each State Games I attended. Definitely played a factor in some of the coaches I was able to connect with.

PB: If you could steal any tool or quality from another player in the state, what would it be and who would it be from?

C: The speed that my guy Kyle Ziebell (Huntley, 2026) has. 

PB: Who is the next talented young player to keep an eye on out of your high school or travel program?

C: Gavin Cheney (Dekalb, 2027)

PB: Did Prep Baseball assist in your recruiting? Whether it be through a showcase, tournament coverage, tweets, etc? If yes, please explain. 

C: Yes, plenty of opportunities to get in front of staff and show off my ability. Very grateful for the opportunity. 

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