Brandon senior baseball player Mike Smith has verbally committed to Florida Gulf Coast, a Division I program in Fort Myers.

Smith, a catcher/first baseman, had received interest from dozens of Division I programs, but recently settled on the Eagles, a young program that made the jump to Division I last year.

“Their campus was outstanding, and they don’t B.S. you like other schools,” Smith said. “They tell you straight forward how it is.”

Smith was a key member of Brandon’s state semifinal squad last season. He hit .404 with nine doubles, four homers with 32 RBI and 31 runs scored.

Smith is one of handful of local players who have recently committed to the Eagles, joining Hillsborough outfielder Jay Laurienzo and Sickles infielder Josh Dunn. Smith said he will sign with Florida Gulf Coast during the early signing period in November.

“They came through with by far the best offer,” Smith said. “I’m really excited.”