By Mike Lehman, TTU Sports Information Coordinator
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – For the seventh consecutive season, the Tennessee Tech baseball team played host to scouts from the highest level of professional baseball as the Golden Eagles hosted their annual Pro Scout Day at Bush Stadium at the Averitt Express Baseball Complex Thursday afternoon.
"Pro Scout Day has been great for our program and our advancement," head coach Matt Bragga said. "Anytime you can get guys seen by major league scouts, it helps our recruiting in two ways. It helps in that guys want to go places where they can be seen and have a chance to play at the next level. That's the kind of player we like to recruit. We want our guys to want to play at the next level."
Representing MLB teams such as the Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, New York Mets, and many more, several scouts were on hand as each member of the Golden Eagle team participated in various drills, ranging from batting practice and fielding drills to a full-scale intrasquad scrimmage.
"It also helps our with getting guys signed and drafted by major league teams, which makes our program even more attractive to recruits," added Bragga. "Scout Night helps get the ball rolling with that process and help make their dreams become reality."
Tech began the day with quick sprints and running drills in the outfield, followed by a brief batting practice session. Throwing and fielding drills followed, leading up to the day's premiere event, the intrasquad scrimmage. Several players put on a show during the event, as home runs, web gems, and nasty pitching were all shown off by the student-athletes.
"I truly believe we have seen this work out for us in a positive way," Bragga said. "It has allowed our guys here to get the most out of their ability. But it's also shown to have an impact in terms of our guys making it to the next level. We've had a guy or more drafted every year since we started this program and I'm excited that we can continue its success."
Since 2009 alone, the Golden Eagles have placed 15 players with major league clubs, including a a program-record six last season.
