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Tobs elect two Senators to 2008 roster

April 23, 2008

Wilson, NC — The Wilson Tobs did not have to travel all the way to Washington, D.C. to find two qualified Senators for this year's team. Instead, they looked no further than the Walters State Community College Senators. Two of their player will be heading to Wilson for the 2008 campaign, pitcher David Francis, and infielder Cody Hawn. Walters State, one of the elite junior college baseball programs in the nation, currently posts an impressive 22-3 record, and won the 2006 Junior College National Championship.

In Francis and Hawn, the Tobs are receiving two professional-caliber baseball players. Francis, a sophomore right-handed pitcher, was selected in the 37th round of the 2006 Major League Baseball Draft by the Chicago Cubs. Hawn, a freshman was selected in the 23rd round of last year's draft by the Milwaukee Brewers.

A native of Ontario Canada, Francis was named the MVP of the National Championship game while attending St. Joseph's High School. During his senior year, he had an amazing 186 strikeouts in just 74 innings of work. In one seven-inning contest, he set a league record with 17 punch-outs.

"David has an outstanding curveball and change up, both of which are great strikeout pitches," said Walters State head coach Ken Campbell. "He works hard, always prepares himself, and battles every time he is out there on the mound."

Through his first 15 games with the Senators this season, Francis posts a record of 8-1, and an ERA of 3.76. In 66 innings this year, Francis has allowed 81 hits, 25 earned runs, 32 walks, and 90 strikeouts. He is looking forward to the beneficial experiences of the Coastal Plain League.

"I want to play against guys in my own age range," he said. "This summer is going to be challenging. Hitters are more in their prime at this level. For me, the biggest key to success will be throwing strikes."

Cody Hawn, a freshman from Knoxville, Tenn., had tremendous successes at South Doyle High School and has continued them at Walters State. His high school resume includes two All-State selections, three All-Region selections, and the "Freshman of the Year" award.

"Cody bats left handed, and can hit for power, which is an asset to any team," said Campbell. "He is a great kid, takes coaching really well, and he's successful because he studies the pitcher to know what's coming. Hawn has the ability to come through in the clutch."

After his first 44 games with the Senators, Hawn is among the league leaders in several offensive categories, batting .421 with 56 runs scored, 13 homers, 50 RBI's, and 115 total bases. Like his teammate David Francis, Hawn is excited about his first season in the Coastal Plain League.

"The Wilson Tobs are one of the most elite programs in the CPL," Hawn stated. "It's an honor to get to play in Wilson. I want to put in a lot of hard work all summer. My dream is to eventually play professional baseball."

The Tobs' season begins on Wednesday, May 28, when they travel to Wilmington to take on the Sharks at 7:05 PM. Wilson will host its home opener on Friday, May 30 against the Florence RedWolves, with first pitch also scheduled for 7:05 PM.

The Wilson Tobs are a member of the Coastal Plain League, the nation's hottest summer collegiate baseball league. Celebrating its twelfth season, the Coastal Plain League features 14 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. The CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with the use of wooden bats. Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both player and hosts. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league website at www.coastalplain.com

Contact:
Ben Jones
252-291-8627