I went back and read an article about Nate Bump at the Gopsusports site from his last year. He was drafted 17th round and not even offered to have his last year of college paid for by the Red Sox. (according to the article, not a real solid offer) So it was a no brainier for him to return for his last year, and he did the best with his opportunity.
On the other hand.....
ONeil was taken in the 8th round, offered significant money from what I have heard, and still decided to hang in with the Wine and company for his final year. Big gamble, but he obviously has confidence in the coaching staff and the rest of the team to stay. Don't know if that would have happened under others, and really don't care.
This team did not do to bad last year either. Tied for 2nd in B-10.
I believe they will be in a similar situation (hopefully) at the end of this year as well. Going out on a limb after the slow start so far.
I also read an article on the Big Ten web site about ONeil recently. Seems it is true that he was a recruited walk on. His Juco Teammate (Deese) told the coach's to take a serious look at him. Looks like it worked out well for all involved.
Final point, ALL head coach's rely heavily on the assistant coach's to recruit. Can't be in 10 places at once. I believe all of the teams coach's go out and evaluate talent. Then they have to qualify the talent. After evaluations, and qualifing the talent, then it comes down to convincing the talent to sign. No easy task. Lets see, last week we played Purdue in 30+ degree weather with rain and snow. Thats a great selling point.....
Lets see what happens the remainder of the year and next year. I believe good things are headed our way.