BREAKING: Cincinnati Moeller Star QB Matt Ponatoski Commits to University of Kentucky for Both Football and Baseball Careers

In a monumental recruiting win that’s already sending shockwaves through the college sports world, Cincinnati Moeller dual-sport sensation Matt Ponatoski has officially announced his commitment to the University of Kentucky. The Class of 2026 standout revealed on Monday morning that he will play both football and baseball for the Wildcats, solidifying his future as one of the most anticipated multi-sport athletes in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

Ponatoski’s decision comes after months of speculation, campus visits, and heavy pursuit from top-tier programs across the nation. Programs from the Big Ten, ACC, and SEC have been vying for his commitment, but Kentucky’s coaching staff ultimately sealed the deal, persuading Ponatoski that Lexington is the right place to develop both his quarterback skills on the gridiron and his athletic prowess on the diamond.

“This has been a dream of mine since I was little,” Ponatoski shared during his announcement, standing proudly in front of family, teammates, and coaches at Moeller High School. “I’ve always wanted the chance to compete at the highest level in both football and baseball. After visiting Kentucky, meeting with Coach Mark Stoops and Coach Nick Mingione, and seeing the facilities, I knew it was home.”

Ponatoski’s name has been on recruiting radars since his freshman year, and for good reason. The 6-foot-3, 200-pound quarterback has been turning heads with his combination of arm strength, mobility, and high football IQ. Last season as a sophomore, he threw for over 2,800 yards and 29 touchdowns while rushing for another 700 yards and eight scores, leading Moeller to a deep playoff run in Ohio’s competitive high school football landscape.

But his football résumé only tells part of the story. On the baseball field, Ponatoski is equally electric. A right-handed pitcher and power-hitting outfielder, he boasts a fastball that touches the low 90s and an intimidating presence at the plate. He’s been a staple of Moeller’s baseball program, known for his clutch performances and ability to deliver under pressure.

Ponatoski’s rare talent as a true two-sport athlete echoes the legacy of stars like Kyler Murray, who excelled at Oklahoma before becoming the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft, all while being a top-10 MLB draft selection. While Ponatoski has yet to declare whether he’ll pursue a professional baseball path or aim for the NFL, his commitment to Kentucky keeps all doors wide open.

For Kentucky, landing Ponatoski is nothing short of a coup. The Wildcats continue to build momentum under head football coach Mark Stoops, who has elevated the program’s profile in recent years with historic wins and a string of top recruiting classes. Adding Ponatoski to the quarterback room represents not only a commitment to developing elite offensive talent but also signals Kentucky’s growing appeal to multi-sport athletes.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Matt to the Wildcat family,” Coach Stoops said in a statement. “He’s a tremendous competitor, a leader, and exactly the type of young man we want representing this program. His ability to excel in both football and baseball shows the dedication and work ethic he brings every day. We’re excited about what the future holds.”

Stoops wasn’t the only Kentucky coach celebrating Ponatoski’s pledge. Baseball head coach Nick Mingione, who has guided Kentucky to national relevance, views Ponatoski as a future difference-maker on the diamond.

“Matt is a special athlete,” Mingione emphasized. “His skill set, his mindset, and his competitiveness make him the perfect fit for Kentucky Baseball. We’ve had success with multi-sport athletes before, and we know Matt is going to thrive here.”

Ponatoski’s commitment also adds to Kentucky’s growing reputation as a destination for Ohio’s top athletes. The state of Ohio remains a hotbed for football and baseball talent, and Kentucky has made significant inroads recruiting from the Buckeye State in recent years.

Analysts believe Ponatoski could compete for playing time early in both sports, though managing the demanding schedules of SEC football and baseball will require discipline, focus, and constant communication between coaching staffs. The university has experience supporting dual-sport athletes, and Ponatoski expressed confidence in Kentucky’s infrastructure to help him succeed on both fronts.

“From day one, both coaching staffs were upfront about the challenges and the expectations,” Ponatoski said. “But they also showed me how they’ve worked with other guys before and how committed they are to making this work. That’s huge for me.”

Ponatoski’s versatility also aligns with broader conversations about athletic development, where more high school stars are resisting early specialization and instead embracing opportunities to compete across multiple sports. His path reflects growing recognition that playing both football and baseball can enhance athleticism, reduce burnout, and increase exposure to professional scouts in both sports.

At Moeller, one of Ohio’s most prestigious athletic programs, Ponatoski has already built a legacy. His leadership, work ethic, and ability to rise in pressure-packed moments have drawn comparisons to past greats from the storied high school powerhouse. Those close to him believe Kentucky is getting not just a talented athlete but a future face of the program.

“Matt’s been a leader since the first day he stepped on campus,” Moeller head football coach Mark Elder remarked. “He’s humble, hardworking, and sets the tone for everyone else. I’m proud of him and excited to watch him represent Moeller and the state of Ohio at Kentucky.”

The recruitment process, Ponatoski admits, has been both exciting and overwhelming at times. Juggling visits, interviews, and game preparations while still maintaining academic responsibilities is no small task for a high school junior. But throughout the journey, he says his family, faith, and love for competition kept him grounded.

“It’s been a whirlwind for sure, but I’ve had incredible support,” Ponatoski said. “I’m just grateful for everyone who’s believed in me—my parents, my coaches, my teammates—and I’m ready to get to work.”

Looking ahead, Ponatoski plans to continue focusing on his development at Moeller before arriving in Lexington after graduation. His goals include leading Moeller to a state championship, continuing to refine his quarterback play, and further honing his skills on the mound and at the plate.

For Kentucky fans, the announcement marks another reason for optimism as the Wildcats position themselves as contenders not only on the football field but also on the baseball diamond. Ponatoski’s commitment underscores the program’s upward trajectory and reflects the increasingly competitive nature of modern college athletics, where universities strive to attract athletes capable of excelling at the highest levels across multiple sports.

Whether it’s launching deep touchdown passes in Kroger Field or sending baseballs over the fence at Kentucky Proud Park, Matt Ponatoski is poised to make an immediate impact in Lexington. His arrival represents more than just a marquee signing—it’s a glimpse into the future of Kentucky athletics, where elite talent, versatility, and championship aspirations collide.

As the ink dries on Ponatoski’s commitment, the message from the bluegrass is clear: The Wildcats just got stronger—and they’re not done yet.