Eagles add three to baseball program

Meridian Community College added three players to their 2008 baseball recruiting class, as announced by head baseball coach Chris Rose Tuesday.

William Beckwitt of West Lowdnes, Allen Johnson of Leake Academy and Casey Lavender of Ridgeland all signed with the Eagles Tuesday.

Beckwitt, a 6’2, 225 lbs right handed fielder and left handed batter, will likely play in the infield for MCC.

“Scouts predict that William will be one of the first players drafted in Mississippi this upcoming draft due to his size, speed, raw power and ability to hit to all fields,” said Rose.

“He is an outstanding addition to our team and we are pleased that he will be one of the signature recruits for us.”

Last season at WLHS, Beckwitt batted .520 for Coach Todd Stanley, while totaling 9 homeruns, 23 extra base hits, 41 runs and 48 RBI in just 32 games. During the summer he batted .490 for the Mississippi Stars summer travel team for Coach Harry Porter.

Johnson, a 6’2, 175 lbs senior at Leake, will be a right-handed pitcher for the Eagles.

“MCC’s baseball tradition speaks for itself,” said Johnson.

“It was a no-brainer once you look at their track record of sending players into the MLB Draft and the SEC. I am excited to be here.”

Johnson went 6-1 his junior season at LA, with a 1.54 ERA and 87 strikeouts.

Lavender, a right-handed pitcher for Ridgeland, was named All Madison County and All District as a starting pitcher his junior season.

“I am excited about playing for MCC,” said Lavender.

“From what I can tell they have one of the best traditions in the region, so I’ve been looking forward to this day for a long time.”