By Staff
Charles Prince, Hartselle Enquirer
After having one of the best seasons of any pitcher in the state, Hartselle senior Andrew Reeves is charging off to college to continue his career. Reeves signed with the University of Alabama Huntsville and will toe the rubber for the Chargers beginning in 2006.
Reeves, who posted a 12-2 record and saved two more this season while compiling a 2.33 ERA, was described by UAH assistant coach T.J. Long as the Chargers "probable number one starter next season."
Reeves admitted the praise puts some pressure on him to deliver during his freshman season.
"Yes, it puts pressure on me to hear it, but I know I've got to work hard at the college level," Reeves said. "I think I can be a number one starter. I just need work for it."
Reeves won 10 games in the regular season and then won two more games in the state playoffs. He limited opposing hitters to only a .216 batting average.
He posted a 15-3 career record and a 2.71 ERA. His accomplishments include a no-hitter during his junior season and not allowing a home run in either his final two seasons of high school ball. For his career, Reeves struck out 155 batters in 121 innings on the mound.
Hartselle head coach William Booth praised Reeves for his work ethic and added he had told several college recruiters they missed out by not getting Reeves to attend their school.
"I told them they missed out not only on a quality pitcher," Booth said. "But also they missed out on having a quality person on their team."
Hartselle assistant coach Chris Heaps said Reeves attitude combined with his natural talent lead to his success this season.
"He never once placed the blame on anyone else but himself when things didn't go well," Heaps said. "He always took instruction and he wanted to learn. I don't know of anyone on our team who worked harder than Andrew Reeves and today all the hard work is paying off."
Reeves, who is undecided on his major, choose UAH because of the reputation of winning baseball.
"I wanted to play at UAH because they have a successful program and I've heard a lot of good things about them for years. I know most of their coaches. I know they'll help me improve while I'm there."
Reeves said his ultimate objective is put on a professional uniform one day and having the chance to play at the college level is another step toward reaching his goal.
"Every young man who plays baseball wants to play pro ball," Reeves said. "I hope I make it some day. This is a step closer, but if I don't make the pros I'm determined to get a good education."