Perdue Stadium to host MEAC baseball championships

SALISBURY, Maryland -- The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Department of Athletics has partnered with the Delmarva Shorebirds to host the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Baseball Championships starting this season and continuing through 2017. The partnership will have Division I championship baseball in Salisbury, Maryland, for the next three years. This year's championship will start Wednesday, May 13 and runs through Saturday May 16 with a possible rain date of Sunday, May 17.

"We think this will be an exciting event for all of Delmarva," said UMES Director of Athletics Keith Davidson. "Teaming up with a premier organization, like the Delmarva Shorebirds, at one of the greatest minor league baseball stadiums in the nation, Arthur W. Perdue Stadium, in an area that loves baseball, like the Eastern Shore, seems like a winning combination for everyone involved."

2015 MEAC Baseball Ticket Flyer 



Six teams will vie for the conference title and an automatic berth to the NCAA Division I Championship field, earning a spot in a regional series. The top-three seeds from the conference's northern and southern division will earn a spot in the championship which will feature at least 10 games over the four days.

The northern division includes Coppin State, Delaware State, Norfolk State and the host UMES. The southern division includes Bethune-Cookman, Florida A&M, North Carolina A&T State, North Carolina Central and Savannah State.

The championships begin on Wednesday with four games. The second and third seeds from each division match up in the first two games, starting at 9 a.m. Then the winners of those two games play the top seeds from the two divisions in the night games.

The tournament is a double elimination format. Thursday features three games, starting at 9 a.m. while Friday will serve as the semi-finals, starting at 10 a.m. The championship game is scheduled for a 1 p.m. start on Saturday and will feature a second game if necessary due to the double elimination format.

Tickets are $8.00 per day or just $25.00 for all four days. Parking is free. To purchase tickets go online at umestickets.com , call 410-621-3311, or mail in the form here. Tickets can also be purchased at the door each day.

UMES will also be hosting a discount promotion each day. Wednesday is slated as Little League night. All youth that participate in little league play or any affiliated youth sports will be admitted free of charge thanks to Atlantic Stand of Ocean City, Md. Thursday is Family Day where buying one ticket gets up to four more family members in for free. Friday's Military Day with all members of the military, active, reserve and retired free admission. In addition, all first responders, police and firefighters will also be admitted free.

Saturday's championship day is highlighted as Negro League Day. All day long, children in eighth grade or younger will receive free admission. The Negro League Day will feature onsite exhibits and information about Negro League Baseball, including various players who played in the leagues from Delmarva. All children who attend will have the opportunity to talk with players and see the display, then see the MEAC championship finals, pitting two of the best HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) going head to head for an NCAA berth. The Eastern Shore Baseball Hall of Fame, located in the stadium, will also be open that day, showing the Shore's contributions to the game.

UMES is also encouraging their faculty, staff and students to attend the event. Anyone who presents a UMES ID at the time of purchase will be able to buy one ticket and get one free each day of the MEAC Baseball Championships. The offer is also extended to all Salisbury University and Wor-Wic Community College students, faculty and staff.

COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE SPORTS INFORMATION

Hollins named new Golden Tigers baseball coach

Hollins, a Tuskegee alum, has been with the program as an assistant since 2010

TUSKEGEE, Alabama -- Tuskegee University athletic director Curtis Campbell announced the hiring of Reginald Hollins as the new head baseball coach for the Golden Tigers, replacing Montressa Kirby who's sole focus will now be on coaching quarterbacks for the Golden Tigers football program.

"Coach (Reginald) Hollins has been a part of the resurgence of baseball at Tuskegee University both as a player and a coach," Campbell said. "He has played an integral part of the success that the baseball program has had in the past several years, and I trust he will continue to do that as I know he will. He will also bring in good men of character and continue the tradition of Tuskegee baseball."

Hollins has been with the baseball program as an assistant coach since the 2010 season, helping the team to their first winning record in 13 years. The following year, the Golden Tigers claimed the NCAA Division II statistical championship for triples as they averaged 0.8 per game.

"I am just excited to fill such large shoes and embark on a journey with history already being set for the program," Hollins said. "I just want to continue and build on that; baseball was the first program on campus, and the pedigree that was built from all of the former players and coaches is history in itself."

After a sub-par 2012, the Golden Tigers rebounded by playing for the SIAC Championship for the first time in 24 years. The team made a second appearance in the championship game the following year, 2013.

During his run as assistant coach, the Golden Tigers had 11 players selected either to the all-conference, all-tournament or all-academic teams.

Hollins has served in multiple roles during his tenure with the baseball program.

No stranger to Tuskegee, Hollins was a pitcher and infielder for the Golden Tigers for four years. During his junior season of 2009, he led the team in batting average (.364), and finished second in hitting (.321) during his senior season. Hollins finished third in the nation as the toughest hitter to strikeout, 60th in triples and 14th in walks allowed by a pitcher per nine innings.

Hollins earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Tuskegee University in 2010.

"Being an alum and coming through the program, I have a sense of where the program is and was," Hollins said. "Just knowing what it takes to build a successful program, I am just excited for the opportunity to lead Tuskegee baseball."

For more information on Tuskegee University athletics, follow us on your favorite social media platform @MyTUAthletics and like us on Facebook.

COURTESY TUSKEGEE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

Paine Baseball to Hold Press Conference/Purple and White Game

COURTESY PAINE COLLEGE ATHLETICS

AUGUSTA, Georgia  -- Paine College head baseball coach Kerby Marshall will host a press conference in the HEAL Complex Conference Room this Friday, Oct. 18 at 2 p.m. to announce details regarding the 2014 Metropolitan Junior Baseball League (MJBL) All-Star Game, the Bobby Bonds Symposium, guest attendees and former MLB players involved.

MJBL Executive Director William Forrester, Jr., former Major League ball player Mookie Wilson (Mets, Blue Jays), MJBL Commissioner Fred Plump, Jimmy Williams and Richard Lee are all tentatively scheduled to attend the press conference.

MJBL is a 47-year-old non-profit organization established during the days of segregation when there were limited opportunities for African-American youngsters to play baseball. Today, the league provides baseball, educational and cultural enrichment opportunities to primarily African American youth across the country with teams in 20 states, the Bahamas and Puerto Rico.

To add to this weekend's festivities, on Sunday, Oct. 20 Coach Marshall and his staff will host the Purple and White Game, the annual end to Paine College baseball's fall workouts. First pitch is scheduled for noon.

About MJBL The Metropolitan Junior Baseball League, Inc. (MJBL) is a non-profit organization that was founded in Richmond, Virginia in 1966. In 1991, MJBL launched its Inner City Classic in Columbia, SC. It was designed to provide urban youth the opportunity to travel to other cities, compete in the game of baseball and to be exposed to diverse cultures. It has since grown to become a national network with teams throughout the United States and the Caribbean. MJBL Virginia welcomes you to read more about how our organization is helping to make a difference in the lives of others and how we are helping to bring baseball back to the inner city.

COURTESY PAINE COLLEGE ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS 

2014 SIAC Baseball All-Conference Team Announced

ATLANTA, Georgia -- The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference today announced its 2014 SIAC Baseball All-Conference Teams, as voted by the SIAC Baseball Coaches Association.

The list of All-Conference and Superlative award winners is highlighted by Fernando Tanaka of Stillman College. Tanaka, a junior shortstop from Sao Paulo, Brazil, has been selected as the 2014 SIAC Baseball Player of the Year. Tanaka registered a .394 batting average (54-of-137) in 41 games for the Western Division Champion Tigers, scoring 48 runs, driving in 38 additional and stealing 18 bases in the process. Tanaka's average of runs scored per game (1.17) ranked 21st nationally, while his 48 runs scored (25th) and four triples (28th) also ranked in Division II Baseball annals.

Stillman pitcher Joseph Falletta has been named the SIAC Starting Pitcher of the Year for the second straight season. Falletta, a senior from Franklin, Tennessee, made 11 appearances on the mound this season, posting a 7-1 record and an ERA of 2.07. Over the course of 61.0 innings pitched, Falletta recorded 58 strikeouts with 18 walks, en route to securing two shutouts. He also engineered six complete games, a number that ranked 12th nationally.

Stillman pitcher Tyler Vails has been selected as the 2014 SIAC Relief Pitcher of the Year. This marks Vails third straight Relief Pitcher of the Year honor, as he posted a 6-1 record with two shutouts, two complete games and one save on the year. Vails, a senior from Gordo, Alabama, ended his season with a 2.01 ERA and 39 strikeouts in 58.1 innings pitched. His WHIP of 0.94 ranked 32nd nationally.

Daniel Young of Benedict College has been chosen as the 2014 SIAC Utility Player of the Year. Young, a sophomore third baseman from Columbia, South Carolina, hit .350 (48-of-137) from the plate while notching six home runs, 14 doubles and two triples on the season. He also swiped 11 stolen bases and secured 14 walks to round out his second season with the Tigers. Young's eight sacrifice flies ranked third nationally, while his average of 1.2 RBI's per contest and total of 48 RBI's ranked 13th and 14th in Division II, respectively.

Reise McDaniel, an outfielder from Albany State University, has been named the 2014 SIAC Freshman of the Year. McDaniel, a native of Atlanta, Georgia, registered a .365 (58-of-159) batting average with 38 RBI's, 14 doubles, one triple and 13 stolen bases for the Golden Rams. His 50 runs scored during the season ranked 15th nationally, while his average of 1.16 runs scored per contest ranked 25th.

For the second consecutive season, Albany State head coach Kenyan Conner has been selected as the SIAC Coach of the Year. Conner guided his Golden Rams club to a perfect 20-0 record in conference play, capturing his second Eastern Division title in successive seasons. Albany State ended its campaign with a 28-16 overall mark.

The Panthers of Claflin University were named the 2014 SIAC All-Academic Champions.

2014 SIAC Baseball First Team All-Conference
Name Position Class School
Robert Latner C Senior Albany State
Nick Baldelli-Boggs 1B Senior Stillman
Ryan Latner 2B Junior Albany State
Fernando Tanaka SS Junior Stillman
Cash Oliver 3B Senior Tuskegee
James Campbell OF Senior Albany State
Daniel Young OF Sophomore Benedict
Reise McDaniel OF Freshman Albany State
Joseph Falletta SP Senior Stillman
Tyler Vails RP Senior Stillman

2014 SIAC Baseball Second Team All-Conference
Name Position Class School
Johnny Surry C Sophomore Clark Atlanta
Andre Collum 1B Sophomore Albany State
Kevin Davis 2B Junior Benedict
Allen Hardy SS Junior Albany State
Paul Winterbottom 3B Junior Stillman
Caleb Pyscher OF Freshman Morehouse
Jonathan Richey OF Senior Paine

Sixto Guerrero OF Sophomore Claflin

John Paul Bernard SP Freshman Albany State

Justin Langdale RP R-Sophomore Miles

Player of the Year: Fernando Tanaka, Stillman
Starting Pitcher of the Year: Joseph Falletta, Stillman

Relief Pitcher of the Year: Tyler Vails, Stillman

Utility Player of the Year: Daniel Young, Benedict

Freshman of the Year: Reise McDaniel, Albany State

Coach of the Year: Kenyan Conner, Albany State

2014 SIAC Baseball All-Academic Team

Name School Class GPA Major
 Justin Vreeland Claflin Junior 4.00 Sports Management

Kent Fuller Lane Sophomore 4.00 Biology

James Cogman Claflin Sophomore 3.90 Politics & Justice Studies

Sixto Guerrero Claflin Sophomore 3.90 Finance

Theodore Woodward Kentucky State Junior 3.85 Psychology

Christopher Emerson Tuskegee Sophomore 3.82 Electrical Engineering

Anthony Ford Claflin Junior 3.80 Sports Management

Reginald Grimes Kentucky State Junior 3.77 Social & Political Science

Jalen Thompson Claflin Sophomore 3.70 Biology

Nick Baldelli-Boggs Stillman Senior 3.67 Psychology

2014 SIAC Baseball All-Academic Team Champions: Claflin

COURTESY THESIAC.COM 

DSU Announces 2012 Athletics Hall of Fame Class

DOVER, Delaware - Rahsaan Matthews, Delaware State University's career passing leader; and Jahsha Bluntt, who led the DSU men's basketball team to the first NCAA Tournament appearance in school history, head the University's 2011 Athletics Hall-of-Fame class. A total of 11 former athletes will be inducted during a ceremony on Friday, Oct. 12 at the Sheraton Hotel and Conference Center in Dover.

The 2012 DSU Hall of Fame class also includes former baseball standouts Maynard Jack Miles, Shawn Phillips, Fred Ruben and Howard Smack.

In addition, Delaware State will honor former football stars Calvin Stephens and Greg Wright, along with basketball greats Robert Vanderhost and Terrelle Waller; and volleyball record-holder Dawn (Alford) Jones.

Matthews was the MEAC Football Offensive Player-of-the-Year and a Black College All-America selection in 2000. He ranks second on the MEAC's career list for passing yards (8,073) and touchdown passes (74), and is fourth in completions (563). He was a Delaware high school all-star before enrolling at DSU.

Bluntt is Delaware State's third all-time leading men's basketball scorer with 1,721 points and the team's career leader with 303 three-point field goals. He was the Most Outstanding Player of the Hornets' lone MEAC Tournament championship team in 2005. The team was the first in school history to compete in a NCAA national championship tournament.

Miles helped lead the Hornets to two Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) baseball championships in the 1960s. A four-time All-CIAA selection, Miles was the conference leader, and ranked sixth among all NCAA Div. II players in hitting, in 1963. He also played two seasons with the Hornet basketball team.

Phillips, a former Laurel (Del.) High School star, is the Hornets' modern-day record holder in wins (24), complete games (18), strikeouts (281) and innings pitched (308.2). He led DSU to the MEAC Tournament championship game, and selected by the Texas Rangers in the Major League Baseball draft in 2004.

Smack, a resident of Seaford, Del., was selected as Delaware State's baseball Most Valuable Player after posting a 5-0 record and 1.84 earned run average in 1970.

A standout infielder, Ruben was an All-CIAA performer for the Hornets in the late 1960s.

Wright was a standout linebacker at DSU from 1976 to '79. He earned Associated Press Division II All-America honors in 1978, and was a three-time All-MEAC selection. He competed in the 1979 Black College All-Star Game, and signed by the NFL's Cleveland Browns after his senior year with the Hornets.

Stephens was a top offensive lineman for the Hornets in the late 1970s and 1980. An All-MEAC selection in 1978, he was selected to play in the Black College All-Star Game in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans in 1979.

Vanderhost was a two-time All-MEAC basketball selection and 1000-point scorer for the Hornets. He was also an assistant coach at DSU.

Waller was a four-year letterwinner for the Lady Hornets' basketball team. A three-time All-MEAC First Team selection and 1000-point scorer, she helped lead DSU to the MEAC Tournament championship game in 2003 and '04. Waller was named to the MEAC All-Tournament in each of those years.

Jones, formerly Dawn Alford, was the Hornets' volleyball career assist leader following her final season in 2005. She holds the top two single-season assist totals in team history.

For more information, contact George Robinson, DSU Director of Athletic Development at (302) 857-7087.

DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY 2012 ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME CLASS

Jahsha Bluntt Basketball

Dawn (Alford) Jones Volleyball

Rahsaan Matthews Football

Maynard Jack Miles Baseball

Shawn Phillips Baseball

Fred Ruben Baseball

Howard Smack Baseball

Calvin Stephens Football

Robert Vanderhost Basketball

Terrelle Waller Basketball

Greg Wright Football

COURTESY DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Cal Bailey Announces 2014 Will be his Last Year Coaching West Virginia State

Coach Cal Bailey
(Courtesy WVSU Athletics)

INSTITUTE, W.Va. – Legendary West Virginia State University (WVSU) baseball coach Cal Bailey has announced that the 2014 season will be his last at the helm of the Yellow Jackets.

Bailey finished the 2013 season with more than 1,000 career victories, one of only seven coaches in NCAA Division II history to win that many games.

Overall, heading into his final season, Bailey will carry a career record of 1,029 wins and only 466 losses. His career record in West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WVIAC) play is 619-154 and under his leadership the Yellow Jackets have won 17 conference championships.

A native of Newton, W.Va., and a graduate of Spencer High School, Bailey first came to Institute as a baseball player.  He was named to the All-WVIAC baseball team in 1966, and signed a contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates to play professionally at the conclusion of that season.

After playing professional baseball through the 1971 season, Bailey returned to work at WVSU in the school’s admissions office. He also resumed his classwork earning his bachelor’s degree from WVSU in 1972 before taking classes from the W.Va. College of Graduate Studies and earning a master’s degree in 1974.

In 1978 Bailey was named the head coach of the Yellow Jackets and established WVSU as one of the premier baseball programs in the WVIAC.

Bailey has been named WVIAC Coach of the Year on eight occasions and was selected the West Virginia College Coach of the Year in 1982. In 1999 and 2005 he was voted the North Atlantic Region Coach of the Year.

He guided the Yellow Jackets to the NCAA Division II North Atlantic Regional Championship and a trip to the NCAA Division II World Series in 1999 where they finished third in the World Series and also garnered a third place finish in the final NCAA Division II Baseball Poll. In 2005 Bailey's squad captured its second North Atlantic Regional title and advanced to the NCAA Division II World Series in Montgomery, Ala. The Jackets finished fifth there and also in the final national coaches' poll.

In addition, 39 of Bailey’s former Yellow Jacket players went on to play baseball professionally, including a handful that made it to the Major Leagues.

Bailey is married to the former Ruth Fisher, herself a 1967 WVSU graduate and former cheerleader. They reside in Cross Lanes and are the proud parents of two children, Danny and Janna, and have four grandchildren.

Away from the baseball diamond, Bailey is an avid hunter and farmer. In 2002, Bailey was named Kanawha County Farmer of the Year.
          
West Virginia State University is a public, land grant, historically black university, which has evolved into a fully accessible, racially integrated, and multi-generational institution, located in Institute, W.Va. As a “living laboratory of human relations,” the university is a community of students, staff, and faculty committed to academic growth, service, and preservation of the racial and cultural diversity of the institution. Its mission is to meet the higher education and economic development needs of the state and region through innovative teaching and applied research.

NCCU Baseball Rallies to Beat Canisius

NCCU Baseball Rallies to Beat Canisius https://t.co/Mj7qr4b7O0

— Dbandman (@Dbandman2) February 16, 2019

Great team win! This one was for the great Mike Wood. #RIP #nccubaseball https://t.co/fEHILqLeDo

— NCCU Baseball (@NCCUBaseball) February 16, 2019

☄️🔥#nccubaseball https://t.co/2uNhethVmA

— NCCU Baseball (@NCCUBaseball) February 16, 2019

RECAP | Sipowicz and Morro post strong performances on Opening Day, but N.C. Central rallies late to take down the #Griffs, 5-2.#MAACBaseball

📰- https://t.co/oV4CyJCti1

— Canisius Baseball (@GriffsBaseball) February 16, 2019

Check out the new gold jerseys the #Griffs will debut in 2019. pic.twitter.com/V64y6OgPbn

— Canisius Baseball (@GriffsBaseball) January 28, 2019

FINAL | Despite 5.2 shutout innings from Andrew Sipowicz and a three-hit day from Conner Morro, @NCCUBaseball rallies in the seventh to take the season opener from the #Griffs, 5-2. pic.twitter.com/KBo2iUddug

— Canisius Baseball (@GriffsBaseball) February 15, 2019

BENNY WITH A SHOT! Stephen Bennett blasts a solo homer to right, and the #Griffs double their lead, 2-0. pic.twitter.com/pjXmj9Hvd9

— Canisius Baseball (@GriffsBaseball) February 15, 2019

EAGLES WIN! #NCCUbaseball rallies to beat defending MAAC champion Canisius 5-2 in season opener. Carter Williams (pictured) 2 hits, including 2-run HR in 8th inning. Series resumes Saturday at 3pm at DAP. #NCCU #EaglePride #EagleEra pic.twitter.com/b0vmYfGP0z

— NCCU Athletics (@NCCUAthletics) February 16, 2019 

SWAC Baseball Players Selected in 2013 MLB Draft

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Three baseball players out of the Southwestern Athletic Conference were selected in the 2013 Major League Baseball Draft.

During the three-day event, Angel Rosa (Alcorn State), Jose De Leon (southern), and Cory Jordan (Grambling State) were drafted moving the count of SWAC baseball players selected overall to 249.

Rosa (SS • 6-2 • 182 • Sr. • Guaynabo, PR / Puerto Rico Baseball Academy) was selected in the 13th round with the 397th overall pick by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Rosa, 2013 Pre-Season SWAC Player of the Year, finished the last year with a .294 batting average. He also led the Braves in stolen bases (17), on base percentage (.372) and recorded 50 hits and 26 runs scored.

An All-SWAC First Team selection in 2013, De Leon (RHP • R/R • 6-2 • 210 • Sr. • Isabela, Puerto Rico/Colegio San Antonio) was picked in the 24th round with the 724th pick by the Los Angeles Dodgers. He finished with a 4-3 overall record and in the top ten in the league in ERA (3.28) and innings pitched (81.2). He led the Jaguars with 73 strikeouts including 25 strikeouts looking. Both marks were ranked second in the conference.

Jordan (RHP • R/R • 6-5 • 215 • Sr. • Houston, Texas / Bellaire HS) was taken by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 35th round with the 1,058th overall selection. Last year as a relief pitcher, Jordan finished with a 2-3 overall record, two saves and a 4.22 ERA. He recorded 27 strikeouts while appearing in 14 games in relief.

SWAC MLB Draft Notes

• There has been a player from the SWAC drafted every year since the amateur draft started in 1965
• The players drafted in 2013 moves the SWAC count of baseball players of current member institutions drafted to 249
• The last time the SWAC had three or more players drafted was 2011 - Chretien Matz (Arkansas-Pine Bluff / Detroit Tigers), Frazier Hall (Southern / L.A. Angels), Cody Hall (Southern / San Francisco Giants), Rodarrick Jones (Southern, Pittsburgh Pirates), and Eldred Barnett (Grambling State / San Francisco Giants)
• Jose DeLeon becomes 91st player drafted from Southern and first since Frazier Hall was drafted in 2011. SU continues to lead the SWAC in baseball players drafed by a MLB team.
• Angel Rosa becomes the 12th player in Alcorn State baseball history to be selected via the draft and first since 2007 after Marcus Davis was selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates
• Cory Jordan becomes Grambling State's 51st player and fourth consecutive drafted overall since 2010. Chris Wolfe was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in 2012. GSU is ranked second among SWAC schools to have a player drafetd by a MLB team
• Rosa becomes the second consecutive shortstop after GSU shortstop, Chris Wolfe, was drafted by the Oakland Athletics
• The last time the SWAC had multiple pitchers drafted was 2007 - Southern's Baron Short (Angels), Roy Merritt (Mets) and Jeff McCollum (Nationals)
• Rosa becomes the first player from Alcorn State and 15th player from the SWAC drafted by the Angels organization
• De Leon becomes the 11th player from the SWAC and ninth from Southern drafted by the Dodgers organization
• Jordan becomes the first player from Grambling State and third player from the SWAC drafted by the Rays organization.

COURTESY SWAC.org 

Virginia State Trojans' Merrill Morgan Coaching AL Ball

Virginia State University Trojans coach Merrill Morgan has compiled over 100 wins and has guided VSU to four Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) championships, including three consecutive championships. Morgan is a 1986 graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, and batted .308 in Rams baseball his junior season.

While high school baseball has ended, American Legion baseball has only just begun within the Tri-Cities for the Colonial Heights (Virginia) Post 284 Bucs and Pirates teams. For fourth-year Post 284 Bucs coach Merrill Morgan, also the head baseball coach at Virginia State University, he is excited to get going. "I just like helping young players develop. I love baseball and working with young players improve for college," Morgan said. "I get a chance to watch and follow many of the players because I coach at Virginia State and live within the area."

As a Dinwiddie native, both of Morgan's sons, M.L. (Merrill,Jr.) Morgan and Marcus have gone to play collegiate baseball. M.L. is currently on the Virginia Commonwealth baseball team and also graduated from Dinwiddie High School while Marcus went to VSU. Both sons last year coached with Morgan during the American Legion season and this year M.L. will join him again.

While at Virginia State, Morgan has coached six seasons - leading the Trojans to over 100 wins with four Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) championships, including three straight titles. He has also been named CIAA baseball coach of the year three times (2004, 2006 and 2007). Because of the good relationships that the Morgan family has developed over the years within the local community, it has only made the teams under the fourth-year coach that much closer.

"The kids that we get are pretty polished. All we try to do is give them the guidance and confidence to play college ball," Morgan said. "They already come from good programs so that experience certainly helps."

READ MORE, CLICK TITLE.

FMU Hires Florentino Burgos as New Baseball Coach

MIAMI, Florida -- Florida Memorial University Director of Athletics Robert Smith has completed the search for a new Men's Baseball coach at FMU with the hiring of Florentino Burgos to lead the Lions into the 2017 season and beyond.

Burgos most recently served as the head coach at Hialeah Gardens Senior High School for the past eight years. He was responsible for evaluating players, practice planning and managing the team. In addition, Burgos owns and operates Tropics Baseball, which organizes fall baseball leagues.

"We are excited to bring Coach Burgos on board to lead our Lions baseball program. Burgos is widely known and respected in the baseball community. His energy and enthusiasm mixed with his focus on player development will help elevate our program to the next level," Smith said.

Burgos is a native of Miami Dade County and played collegiately at Florida International University. Following his collegiate career, he was signed by the Kalamazoo Kings. He later returned to South Florida, where he was the head coach at North Miami Beach Senior High and RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities).

As a collegiate baseball player, Burgos was an All-Regional Team selection and NCAA D1 Regional Champion. Burgos inherits a program that returns the majority of its players. He and the Lions will open play in February of 2017.

COURTESY FLORIDA MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Tuskegee University’s Dynamic Pitcher-Catcher Duo Participate in MLB’s All-Star Futures Game

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Over 38,000 people watched from the stands Sunday in Washington D.C.’s Nationals Park as Tuskegee University pitcher Christian Marshall stepped up to the plate to throw the ceremonial first pitch of the 2018 SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game. Elgin Woodside, a catcher for Tuskegee’s baseball team, assisted. Although the two were not yet prospects for the “Majors,” they both have a stake in the future of baseball.

“Growing up as kids, playing baseball, everyone has that dream of going to the [pros],” Marshall said, as he explained the feeling of pitching in a game with Minor League Baseball’s top prospects.

Woodside added: “Even though we never thought that moment would come to us, whenever we got in the moment, it didn’t feel like we were out of place. It felt like we were meant to be there, and all our hard work was paying off and God just gave us our blessing.”

As a part of the Major League Baseball’s All-Star Week, the 2018 SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game is meant to shine a spotlight on budding baseball stars. At the 20-year mark, the exhibition game “features the top Minor League prospects competing in a nine-inning contest as part of All-Star Sunday,” according to the league’s official website.

Marshall and Woodside are pitcher and catcher of Tuskegee University’s SIAC baseball team. The two bonded over baseball, however, long before they entered Tuskegee, in their hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana; both participated in the New Orleans MLB Urban Youth Academy.

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Southern Baseball to host summer showcase June 2

LEE-HINES FIELD
COURTESY SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY and A&M COLLEGE ATHLETICS

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana -- Head Coach Roger Cador is set to host the first of two summer baseball showcases at Lee-Hines Field June 2 on the Southern University campus.

Interested parents and participant are urged to complete an application form listed below to register. Prospective participants may also have their information submitted directly to the Jaguars baseball program.

The Jaguars' High School Baseball Showcase provides an opportunity for high school players (Grades 9-12) interested in playing college baseball to be evaluated by the Southern University Coaching Staff. The showcase will be limited to 34 players on a first-come, first-served basis.

Players can choose pitcher and another position. In this case the player will pitch one inning, receive 3 at-bats, and play in the field at their desired position. The showcase will field 2 teams from the following allotment of players for a 12-inning game.

SU baseball will host a fall showcase at Lee-HInes Field on Sept. 5.

Please submit completed application to: daniel_canevari@subr.edu

June 2 Baseball Showcase Application and Flyer
June 2 Baseball Showcase Questionnaire

COURTESY SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS 

Jonathan Hernandez Named B-CU DiamondCats Head Coach

DAYTONA BEACH, Florida --  – Jonathan Hernandez has been named the new head coach for the Bethune-Cookman University baseball program, announced Tuesday afternoon by Bethune-Cookman Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Lynn W. Thompson.
 
"We are delighted to have Jonathan Hernandez join us as the new head coach for our Wildcats Baseball program," said Lynn W. Thompson. "After a thorough national search, it was clear that Jonathan was a rising talent that we couldn't allow to pass us by."

Hernandez joins Bethune-Cookman after spending the previous four years at ASA College in Miami. He served as the school's first head coach after being named to the post in May 2014. He was responsible for all of ASA's program aspects, including being the recruiting coordinator, coordinating travel and budgets, scheduling and equipment maintenance and ordering. All of this while still serving as the head coach. In his time with ASA, his teams excelled on the field and in the classroom, with the team maintaining a 3.21 Grade Point Average (GPA) across five years.
 
"I am extremely excited about being head coach for such a prestigious baseball program like Bethune-Cookman University," said Hernandez. "I just want to thank Interim President Hubert Grimes, Mr. Lynn Thompson and everyone at the university for trusting in me to lead this team and program.
 
"There are some pretty big shoes to fill after this team is just a year away from being in an NCAA Regional final against the eventual national champions. So many great head coaches have come before me and worn these colors and served this institution. Again, I am happy, but I know there's a lot of hard work to do, and some huge shoes to fill."
 
Aside from serving as head coach at ASA, Hernandez has been a scouting task force member for USA Baseball since 2012, which is based out of Cary, North Carolina. He has assisted in the USA selection of players, as well as coordinating throwing programs, working with fielders in practices, games and in one-on-one sessions, respectively.
 
Throughout his time at ASA in Miami, Hernandez has received several accolades that assisted him in his growth. In 2016, Hernandez helped ASA to a Division 2 Region 8 Conference runner-up finish. That same season, he coached four student-athletes in being named All-Region 8 District Team members.
 
Just a season later in 2017, ASA was crowned Division 2 Region 8 conference champions, while seven players were named to the All-Region 8 District Team.
 
ASA achieved 20-plus wins in each of the last three seasons…all without a home field. The team played all games on the road, each season.
 
Prior to the appointment at ASA, he was the head coach for six years at Hialeah High School in his hometown of Miami from 2008-14. It is at Hialeah High that he coached numerous players that went on to several university across the nation, including former BCU pitcher Alexis Herrera (2005-18).
 
During his stint with the Thoroughbreds, his 2011 team reached the State Final Four, and in 2013 he was named the Miami Dade H.S. Class 8-A District 13 Coach of the Year. He has had a number of his former players go on to play college and professional baseball including Rangel Ravelo and Nestor Cortes. Both were drafted out of Hialeah High by the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees, respectively. Additionally, during his time at Hialeah High, Hernandez served as the USA 14U National Team Development Program Pitching Coach in the summer of 2015.
 
"When we looked for a baseball coach, we went out and looked for the BEST," expressed Thompson. "We received many applications from some big names around the country. We really took our time and performed a thorough search for the next head coach of Bethune-Cookman Baseball.
 
"We want to get back to a Regional final, and ultimately, win a Regional championship. And we feel Jonathan Hernandez is the guy that will help us achieve that goal."
 
Jonathan Hernandez is married to Olly, and together, the couple has a son and a daughter.
 
His duties as head coach are set to begin immediately.
 
Bethune-Cookman Baseball on Twitter (@BCUDiamondCats) for all of the latest news and updates. For all Bethune-Cookman Athletics news, follow us on Twitter (@BCUathletics), Instagram (@BCUathletics), Snapchat (@BCUathletics) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/BCUathletics).

BETHUNE-COOKMAN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

Melendez Selected To USA Baseball 17U National Team Coaching Staff

MONTGOMERY, Alabama -- Alabama State head baseball coach Mervyl Melendez has been selected to the coaching staff of the USA Baseball 17-and-under National Team Development Program.

The USA Baseball 17U National Team Development Program will be held August 16-21 in Orange, Calif. The National Team Development Program offers identified athletes with an opportunity to connect with USA Baseball to better prepare for a future national team experience. A total of 40 players are scheduled to participate.

"I am honored to have the opportunity to mentor and work with many talented young players during this training," Melendez said. "Wearing the red, white and blue uniform will be very exciting for me."

In four seasons as Hornets' head coach, Melendez has led ASU baseball to three consecutive 30-win seasons, a program first. In leading the program to back-to-back SWAC Eastern Division crowns in 2014 and 2015, Melendez' Hornets were crowned Black blackcollegenines.com this past season. His 119 wins are the highest four-year total in ASU baseball history. Milestones continue to be set yearly, as 2014's 37-win total was the most in program history for the second straight year after 32 victories in 2013. It's the first time ASU baseball has posted four straight 20-win seasons.
College National Champions by

COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

West Virginia State: Loyd Steps Down, Burton Named Interim AD

INSTITUTE, West Virginia -- West Virginia State University (WVSU) Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach Sean Loyd has stepped down as Athletic Director effective January 16, 2016, in order to solely focus his efforts on WVSU's baseball program. WVSU President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. made the announcement following a request from Loyd to resign his administrative leadership of the athletic programs in order to pursue his passion for coaching baseball on a full-time basis.

A native West Virginian and alum of West Virginia State, Loyd became an Assistant Baseball Coach in 1994 before being named Head Coach in Waiting in 2013 and Head Baseball Coach in 2014. Additionally, Loyd has served in a dual role as WVSU's Athletic Director since 2008.

"Without question, Sean is a highly dedicated and very loyal member of the State family. He has faithfully served his alma mater with immense pride, while selflessly dedicating his efforts to providing a solid foundation on which our student-athletes excel in and out of the classroom," President Hemphill said. "Since becoming President in 2012, I have witnessed first-hand Sean's dedication to students, faculty, staff, and the local community. His leadership was instrumental in the construction of the D. Stephen and Diane H. Walker Convocation Center and the Gregory V. Monroe Athletic Complex, as well as the University's transition from the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WVIAC) to the Mountain East Conference (MEC). He is highly regarded as a leader on campus, within the community he serves, and across the state."

During Loyd's 22-year coaching career at West Virginia State, he has experienced much success at the individual player and team levels. He coached 46 hitters who have been selected to the All-Conference team, including eight who were honored as conference Hitter of the Year and 11 who were named All-Americans. He also coached eight hitters who have signed Major League Baseball contracts. Loyd has been a part of 12 NCAA tournament bids, including two Division II World Series appearances in 1999 and 2005, and 10 conference championships, including a second consecutive MEC championship victory in Loyd's first year as Head Coach. Loyd also spearheaded the creation of "The Bullpen," the fundraising and alumni arm of WVSU's baseball program.

In order to ensure a smooth transition, President Hemphill has appointed Nate Burton as WVSU's Interim Athletic Director. Burton currently serves as WVSU's Director of Development focusing his efforts on the University's fundraising activities, including, but not limited to, the University's athletic programs and related events. "With a strong professional background and extensive experience with intercollegiate athletics, I am confident Nate will provide strong leadership for the University's athletic programs and student-athletes," said President Hemphill.

Prior to joining WVSU in October 2014, Burton served as the Assistant Director for Athletic Development – The Seahawk Club at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW). Burton was responsible for planning, developing, and implementing fundraising initiatives for athletic scholarships. He assisted with the creation and implementation of the Dub Club initiative, which allowed supporters to form their own "Dub Club" based on common interests, and Club's competed throughout the year to raise scholarship funds for UNCW Athletics. This initiative raised over $325,000, helping the Seahawk Club increase its fundraising more than 40 percent over the previous year. Burton also worked with volunteer leadership and coordinated the Seahawk Club benefits program.

Burton also served as the Assistant Director of External Relations – Athletics at High Point University. During his tenure at High Point University, he assisted with sponsorships for regional businesses and supported the Panther Club's annual fundraising efforts. Burton oversaw all marketing, including materials and game day operations, for baseball, women's basketball, volleyball, women's soccer, and women's lacrosse.

He also worked at Clemson University, where he served as the IPTAY Scholarship Fund Intern in the Athletic Department. He assisted in soliciting members and managing of the IPTAY Collegiate Club, the IPTAY Rewards Program, and the IPTAY Discount Program. Burton hosted donor events, including the 2012 BCS Discover Orange Bowl. Other responsibilities included creating and implementing the marketing plan for the 2011 men's and women's soccer season. During that season, Clemson's soccer team set a new regular-season attendance record for a men's soccer game of 7,423. Home attendance for men's soccer games was ranked 10th nationally (20th in 2010).

Burton began his career as a graduate assistant for the Big Green Scholarship Foundation at Marshall University, where he earned a master's degree in Sports Management in December 2011. At Marshall, Burton assisted with daily operations and provided support to the Director with the Football Enhancement Fund and Tip-Off Club. Burton also planned special events and worked directly with donors on logistics, including ticketing and game day arrangements.

A 2009 graduate of Washington and Jefferson College, Burton was a four-year starter on the men's basketball team. In 2008-09, Burton helped lead the team to a 20-10 overall record for the program's second 20-win season. That year ended with Washington and Jefferson College winning the ECAC Division III championship. Burton has two children, Arabella and Sean, and resides in South Charleston.

COURTESY WEST VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Mitch Hill, New Leader of A&M Baseball

HEAD COACH MITCH HILL
AAMU BULLDOG BASEBALL

NORMAL, Alabama -- The Alabama A&M athletics department hires Mitch Hill to take the reins of the Bulldog Baseball team.

Hill first joined the A&M baseball program as an assistant under former head coach Michael Tompkins. Hill immediately began making an impact on the program by hitting the recruiting trail and bringing young men onto the campus for visits, in turn having a great early signing class for the 2014 season.   After Tompkins resigned in July 2013, Hill filled in temporarily until the position was filled.

"We are excited to announce Coach Mitch Hill as our new head baseball coach. He brings an exciting and energetic brand of baseball. His ability to recruit top-notch baseball student-athletes who excel in the classroom as well as on the diamond is exactly what we need. His hiring gives us the continuity to build on an up and coming baseball program," says Alabama A&M Director of Athletics Bryan Hicks on this new addition.

Mitch began his coaching career at his alma mater, the University of North Alabama, where he lettered and pitched from 2002 to 2007 while earning his bachelor's degree in Physical Education with a minor in Business Administration. As a graduate assistant under Head Coach Mike Keehn, Hill was primarily charged with the recruiting of future Student-Athletes. During the three years in which he excelled in the recruiting field, he also performed duties within all aspects of the game.

After leaving UNA, and before joining the Bulldogs, he continued his coaching career as an assistant coach at two different junior colleges in the Southeast, Motlow State Community College and Bevill State Community College. Mitch spent one year at Bevill State Community College prior to the athletic program being cut from the college.  During that year, he had the top three recruiting class in the state of Alabama.

After Bevill, he spent one year at Motlow State Community College in Lynchburg, Tennessee under Head Coach Dan McShea. Mitch helped guide the bucks to the best season they've had in seven years, with 34 wins and an appearance in the state tournament.

"First of all I'm excited, I've had a lot of family support and I want to thank my wife Erin Lynn Hill," smiled Coach Hill.

In his second year with the Bulldogs, and in the first head coaching position of his career, Coach Hill looks to continue making improvements and increase the impact he has had thus far on "The Hill".

"Being on "The Hill" for the past year, and bringing in a good recruiting class this year, we are taking baby steps. We made it to the conference tournament for the first time in five years last season, and with the recruiting class, I brought in this year we are looking to make huge steps" in the whole scheme of things," adds Hill.

"Everyone in this area and community has been good to me, I am truly excited, and I look to be here for a while. I would like to thank Bryan Hicks and the Department of Athletics for giving me this opportunity to be the head coach."

COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Edward Waters, Alabama State #1 in 2017 HBCU Preseason Black College Nines Baseball Polls

LUBBOCK, Texas -- A year after ending the 2016 season with the number one poll ranking, Alabama State University opens the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Black College Nines’ 2017 Large School Preseason Baseball Poll for the second year in a row ranked number one.

Alabama State, one of six Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) teams in the top ten, is joined by No. 4 Jackson State University, No. 6 Grambling State University, No. 7 Texas Southern University, No. 8 University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and No. 10 Southern University.

Florida A&M University, the 2016 final poll third place finisher, opens the season ranked No. 2 and is one of four Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) teams in the preseason top 10 poll. Other conference members include No. 3 Bethune Cookman University, No. 5 Norfolk State University and No.10 North Carolina Central University rounds out the BCN large school division representing NCAA Division I baseball programs.

Edward Waters College concluded last season with the number two ranking and by virtue of one more first place vote, sits atop the HBCU preseason poll this year. The Tigers of EWC was the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) regular season champion and then competed in the Association of Independent Institutions (A.I.I.) tournament.

The rest of the small school poll, made up of NCAA Division II, Division III and NAIA schools, includes No. 2 West Virginia State University, No. 3 Winston-Salem State University, No. 4 Benedict College, No. 5 Miles College, No. 6 Claflin University, No. 7 Selma University, No. 8 Paine College, No. 9 Stillman College and No. 10 Jarvis Christian University.

Please note… in cases of a tie, the higer ranking was determined by first place votes

Black College Nines is dedicated to preserving the tradition of baseball at historically black colleges and universities in our coverage of HBCU Baseball.

For a preview of all the large school baseball programs, please click here and for all the small school baseball programs, please click here.

2017 HBCU Large School Preseason Poll
No. School Conference Points * 2016 W-L
1 Alabama State University SWAC 216 (16) 38-15
2 Florida A&M University MEAC 165 (3) 31-21
3 Bethune-Cookman University MEAC 165 (2) 29-25
4 Jackson State University SWAC 133 34-25
5 Norfolk State University MEAC 127 29-21
5 Grambling State University SWAC 103 22-27
7 Texas Southern University SWAC 96 (2) 23-26
8 University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff SWAC 91 22-25
9 North Carolina Central MEAC 62 25-30
10 Southern University SWAC 45 14-32
* Indicates number of first place votes

2017 HBCU Small School Preseason Poll
No. School Conference Points * 2016 W-L 

1 Edward Waters College GCAC 160 (7) 31-13
2 West Virginia State University MEC 160 (6) 32-15
3 Winston Salem State University CIAA 126 (1) 31-22
4 Benedict College SIAC 112 (2) 27-19
5 Miles College SIAC 102 (2) 32-17
6 Claflin University SIAC 77 (1) 24-31
7 Selma University Independent 77 27-12
8 Paine College SIAC 63 27-20
9 Stillman College Independent 61 (1) 27-24
10 Jarvis Christian College RRAC 61 27-29
* Indicates number of first place votes

CREDIT: MICHAEL COKER, BLACK COLLEGE NINES, COLLEGE BASEBALL FOUNDATION

UMES Brian Hollamon to be inducted in Eastern Shore Baseball Hall of Fame

SALISBURY, Maryland — On Nov. 17, six distinguished contributors to baseball on the Eastern Shore will be honored with induction into the Eastern Shore Baseball Hall of Fame (ESBHOF). Among the inductees is University of Maryland Eastern Shore head coach Brian Hollamon.

Hollamon earns induction after a 25-year legacy of playing and coaching baseball on Delmarva, from his time at Sussex Central High School up to his present position coaching the Hawks.

"It is a very nice honor, and I'm very appreciative of the committee for thinking highly enough to induct me." Hollamon said. "I love the game of baseball, both playing and coaching. I take pride in showing up every day and doing my best."

A member of the 1989 Delaware State Baseball Champion while at Sussex Central, Hollamon went on to play in two Big League World Series before arriving at Salisbury in 1991. He was an All-Conference player, captain and MVP for the Sea Gulls, hitting .325 his sophomore season and .291 his junior season. He also helped on the mound as a senior, going 4-1 with a 4.05 ERA and 37 strikeouts.

Hollamon parlayed his scholastic and collegiate career into 22 seasons with the Eastern Shore Baseball League. Eighteen of those seasons were with the Perdue Chicks, where he helped lead the team of 11 league championships and five national World Series appearances. With over 530 games with the Chicks, Hollamon is enshrined in their record book numerous times, and earned induction to the National Semi-Pro Baseball Hall of Fame in 2014.

His coaching career began in the mid-1990s as an assistant at Maryland Eastern Shore. That was followed by 18 seasons as a high school in Wicomico County, first with Mardela and then 14 years at Parkside High School in Salisbury. Hollamon was named the Hawks head coach in 2017 and is preparing for his second season at the helm.

The ESBHOF Induction Banquet will take place Nov. 17 at The Commons Bistro Room on the campus of Salisbury University. Socials begin at 5 p.m. followed by a 6 p.m. dinner. Tickets are $35 and must be purchased in advance by calling 410-221-0406 or by emailing info@esbhalloffame.org.

The museum is located at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium, home of the Delmarva Shorebirds. Admission is free, and hours are by appointment or during Shorebirds home games.

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

WSSU Rams name interim coach

Winston-Salem State wasted little time finding a coach for its new baseball program, naming Kevin Ritsche yesterday (June 30) on an interim basis. "Wow," Ritsche, 28, said as he was introduced by Chancellor Donald Reaves at the Bowman Gray Stadium Fieldhouse. WSSU, as required by the CIAA for reentrance, must field a baseball team by the spring of 2011, and Ritsche said he's ready to start putting the pieces together. WSSU last offered baseball in 1973.

"After a 38-year hiatus, baseball is back at Winston-Salem State University," said Reaves, an avid baseball fan. "We have a short time frame to get a team on the field, but now is the best time to once again have baseball back at this university." Athletics Director Bill Hayes stayed in-house to find his coach. Ritsche has been a faculty member in WSSU's exercise-science department since 2005 and is working on his doctorate.

"After I talked to Kevin, I didn't have to talk to anybody else," Hayes said. "This guy wants to start practice now, so he's ready to hit the ground running. That's what we need." Ritsche was a catcher and team captain at The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minn., and later a graduate assistant there. He was an honorable-mention NAIA All-America in 2004.

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CIAA Baseball Honors: 2014 All-Conference Teams, Top Rookies and Players of the Year Announced

HAMPTON, Virginia  --   CIAA Baseball Player of the Year is Ray Crawford, an outfielder for Winston-Salem State University.  Crawford leads the conference in RBI (59) and has the second leading batting average (.382) in CIAA baseball.  He's scored 35 runs in 44 games and leads the conference in hits with 63.

Chowan University's Tanner Woods is the CIAA Baseball Rookie of the Year.  Woods is a third baseman for the Hawks.  He ranks second in the conference in doubles (14) sporting a .306 batting average in 40 games.

The All-Conference and Rookie Teams will be honored at the 2014 CIAA Spring Sports Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, April 16 at 6:00pm on the campus of Virginia State University.

All-CIAA Baseball First Team
# | NAME | SCHOOL | CLASS | HT | HOMETOWN
Right Handed Pitcher: #14 | Colton Gunn | VSU | SO. | 6'3 | Dinwiddie, VA
Left Handed Pitcher: #15 | Byran Rivera | SAU | Jr. | 6'1 | Puerto Rico
Catcher: #1 | David Markins | VSU | FR. | 5'11 | Colonial Heights, VA
Designated Hitter: #25 | Ryan Moore | CU | Sr. | 6'2 | Chester, VA
Utility: #2 | Tyler Burden | CU | So. | 6'0 | Aulander, NC
First Base: #26 | William Thomas | SAU | SO. | 5'11 | Yorktown, VA
Second Base: #14 | Rafael Gonzalez | WSSU | SR. | 5'10 | Caracas, VZ
Third Base: #11 | Joshua Markins | VSU | JR. | 6'0 | Colonial Heights, VA
Short Stop: #23 | Nicholas Christopher | VSU | JR. | 6'1 | Dinwiddie, VA
Outfield:
#23 | Ray Crawford | WSSU | JR. | 6'0 | Greensboro, NC
#8 | Leland Clemmons | WSSU | JR. | 5'9 | Chesapeake, VA
#1 | Gavin Culler | WSSU | FR | 5'9 | Clemmons, NC

Player of the Year:
#23 | Ray Crawford | WSSU | JR. | 6'0 | Greensboro, NC
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, in conjunction with the CIAA Baseball Coaches Association, announces its selections for the 2014 All-Conference Teams, All-Rookie Team and Players of the Year.

All-CIAA Baseball Second Team
Right Handed Pitcher: #12 | Scott Wells | WSSU | SR. | 6'0 | Kernersville, NC
Left Handed Pitcher: #34 | Wes Helsabeck | WSSU | JR. | 6'0 | Rural Hall, NC
Catcher: #30 | Connor Andrus | WSSU | Jr. | 5'10 | Winston-Salem, NC
Designated Hitter: #2 | Darien Hardaway | SAU | SR. | 6'2 | Atlanta, GA
Utility: #9 | Anthony Nutall | WSSU | Sr. | 5'7 | Kankakee, IL
First Base: #24 | John Hunter | CU | Sr.  | 6'1 | Hertford, NC
Second Base: #4 | Calvin Butcher | SAU | SR. | 5'9 | Dewey Beach, DE
Third Base: #6 | Tanner Woods |  | Fr. | 6'0 | Newport News, VA
Short Stop: #4 | Colby Wiggins | CU | Sr. | 5'10 | Gloucester, VA
Outfield:
#7 | Jason Baytop | SAU | SO. | 6'0 | Manchester, MD
#5 | Jamie Scott | SAU | SR. | 5'10 | Hampton, VA
#23 | Clarence Peace | SAU | SR. | 6'0 | Creedmoor, NC

Baseball All-Rookie Team
# | NAME | SCHOOL | CLASS | HT | HOMETOWN
Right Handed Pitcher: #10 | Stephen Hux | CU | FR. | 6'2 | Hampton, VA
Catcher: #3 | Matt Wisniewski | CU | FR. | 5'9 | Williamston, NC
Utility: #4 | Ronald Lashley | LU | FR. | 5'4 | Brooklyn, NY
First Base: #32 | Kyle Cross | CU | FR. | 6'3 | Grimesland, NC
Third Base: #6 | Tanner Woods | CU | FR. | 6'0 | Newport News, VA
Short Stop: #9 | DeVante Parker | LU | FR. | 5'9 | Bear, DE
Outfield:
#1 | Gavin Culler | WSSU | FR. | 5'9 | Clemmons, NC
#22 | Latuan Boggerty | LU | FR. | 5'10 | Dover, DE

Rookie of the Year:
#6 | Tanner Woods | CU | FR. | 6'0 | Newport News, VA

COURTESY THECIAA.COM