When Luke Fernandes pitches for Marshwood High, three or four major league scouts are usually behind the backstop, aiming their radar guns to record the speed of his fastball.

In Tuesday’s game against Sanford, Fernandes’ pitches ranged between 89 and 91 mph. It’s that fastball, and his ability as a hitter and a fielder that enabled Fernandes to earn Maine Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year honors Wednesday.

“It’s a nice honor for Luke because he’s been on a baseball field since he was 3,” said his father and coach, Eric Fernandes.

“It’s a recognition of all the hard work he’s put in. As a father, I’m clearly proud of him. As his coach, it’s a nice honor for our program. I’m not sure if Marshwood has had a Gatorade Player of the Year in baseball.”

Fernandes plans to attend Boston College on a baseball scholarship. But if the scouts keep showing up with radar guns, he might gain enough acclaim to be a pick in the June draft.

“I’m real excited, obviously,” said Fernandes. “My athletic director, Rich Buzzell, told me I was going to be nominated. I didn’t know if I would win because of all the outstanding players like Louie DiStasio (Cheverus) and Ben Wessel (Scarborough).

“Winning the Gatorade award is also a testament to our program.”

Fernandes said if he was drafted, he would have to look long and hard at pro baseball and college.

“It would be a nice problem to have,” he said. “Obviously, education comes first. But ever since I started watching baseball on television, I’ve wanted to be Nomar (Garciaparra) or Pedro (Martinez).

“It’s a dream of every young player to make it to the major leagues.”

Fernandes is 4-1 with a 1.83 earned-run average.

He has struck out 47 batters in 30 2/3 innings.

Fernandes is batting .404 with 14 RBI.

Staff Writer Tom Chard can be reached at 791-6419 or at:

tchard@pressherald.com

Twitter: TomChardPPH