The defending MEAC champion returns many of key pieces of its championship team. Four starting pitchers are back from last year’s squad. KC Coleman, who threw two complete games in the MEAC tournament, Josh Hancock, Josh Barr and Josh Wilson all return for the Rattlers. First team All-MEAC closer Jeremiah McCollum is back, along with go-to man Morgan Mendez out of the bull pen. Chandellor Benton returns to action after missing last season with an elbow injury and will add depth to the bull pen.
Offensively the Rattles will have to replace some key contributors in Bret Maxwell, Kaycee Reese and Willis McDaniel. Returning to the Rattler lineup are veterans Octavien Moyer, Tucker Rayburn and Seyjuan Lawrence who are more than capable of filling that void. Sophomores Jared Weber and Robert Robinson look to build on breakout freshman seasons and have the potential to be stars for the Rattlers.
There has been improvement everyday throughout the fall so far by this group. According to the coaching staff, “we are a long way from where we want to be, but really like the potential that this group has. If we continue to work hard and get better everyday, this spring could be a lot of fun.”
New Players
Evan Johnson – Jr. L/L 1B has done nothing but hit since stepping on campus. A JUCO transfer from Gulf Coast State College in Panama City, FL. In 18 scrimmage at bats, he has nine hits including 2 2B’s and a 3B. Will make an impact in the lineup.
Ethan Jenkins – Fr. R/R OF from Mandarin HS in Jacksonville, FL. The future is bright for this young player. Very strong and physical for a freshman and has gap to gap pop at the plate. Had five hits in 15 scrimmage at-bats. Keep an eye on Ethan as he develops as a baseball player.
LJ Bryant – Jr. R/R OF from Andrew College. Plus, plus power at the plate. Physical looking guy who is very athletic as well. Will hit in the middle of the lineup for us.
Kelyn Fox – Jr. LHP from Seminole State College. Three pitch mix on the mound and will throw any pitch in any count. Not a hard thrower but has enough to keep hitters honest.
Landon Nevill – Jr. RHP South Georgia State College. Big, strong kid standing 6’5 and weighing 225. Loose 3/4 slot that creates a lot of sink. Fastball sits 88-90 and slider has shown lots of promise. Has a chance to help out in back end of pen.
FAMU baseball had some key fall games in October against Tallahassee Community College and Coastal Alabama. They also hosted a scout day with a number of Major League Baseball scouts in attendance.