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Novi graduate Andrew Abler raises the state championship trophy after winning the MHSAA Division 1 state title June 17 at McLane Stadium at Michigan State University.
File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
NOVI — They left as state champions and are already making their mark on the college stage.
Novi graduate Andrew Abler, who earned Division 1 Cold Weather Bats Pitcher of the Year honors as a senior in high school last year, made his debut on the diamond for Harvard University, tossing four strikeouts in four innings of work Feb. 23 against Troy University.
Abler took over in the fifth inning for the Crimson, striking out the first batter he faced. Abler followed up his impressive debut with his first career win March 2 against The Citadel, striking out three in 3.2 innings of work as Harvard won 4-3.
Abler currently carries a 2.35 ERA on the year and is expected to hold a prominent role in the Crimson bullpen as a long reliever.
Harvard (1-5) was swept by Troy in their opening three-game series.
Abler wasn’t the only Novi state championship winner to make headlines in his debut as Brett Reed tallied a triple in his first plate appearance for Lawrence Technological University March 2 against Trinity Baptist College.
Reed would score later in the inning as LTU (6-3) would go on to win 13-0.
