Over 40 schools made offers, and Albert Lea’s Big Nine All-Conference and First Team All-Area shortstop made his decision.

Jake Thompson committed to coach Dave Schrage and South Dakota State University’s baseball program, Thompson confirmed Thursday night.

As a junior last season, Thompson consistently made plays for the Tigers’ infield and excelled at the plate. He was one of three players in the Tribune’s seven-team coverage area to break the 30-hit barrier. Thompson was 12th in the area and third on Albert Lea’s roster with a .349 batting average, and he tied Mason Hammer with a team-high eight doubles.

“He’s a heck of a shortstop and a great kid,” said Albert Lea baseball coach Joe Sczublewski.

Thompson was featured Wednesday in Prep Baseball Report’s Recruiting Radar.

“Quick hands and drives the ball with authority,” the report said. “Thompson has some of the best infield actions in the 2016 class in Minnesota. Above average carry and accuracy across the diamond. Balance and body control is well above average.”

Other schools that presented offers included Minnesota, Minnesota State, Mankato, North Dakota State, Kansas State and Northwestern, among others.

Thompson said his first contact with the Jackrabbits was in June, and he visited South Dakota State’s campus in July. He said he plans to major in Biology.

“It’s a great opportunity for academics and athletics,” Thompson said.

Former Tigers pitcher Aaron Klatt, who was the Dick Seltz Big Nine Conference Player of the Year and a Class AAA All-State selection his senior season in 2011, also went on to play for SDSU.