MILLIGAN COLLEGE, TN (May 11, 2007) --- The Milligan College baseball team has signed five players for the upcoming season. The Buffs have added Justin Motte, Brett Book, Lucas Henderson, Nathan Matthews and Marc Simo for next year’s team.

Motte, from Cleveland State (Tenn.) Community College, is a middle infielder and hit .280 while at Cleveland State. He has scored 26 runs with two home runs and 20 RBIs. While at Cleveland State, Motte played for head coach Mike Policastro.

“Justin is a great addition to the program, not only does he bring a tremendous amount of athleticism to the club, but also a great work ethic and blue collar mentality,” Meade said. “We are very excited and have high expectations in his role that he will fill for the team.” 

Book comes to Milligan from Hiwassee (Tenn.) College and will join Motte in the infield. Book drove in 25 RBIs with 20 runs scored, three home runs and hit .280 for head coach Lance Knight.

“Brett is a solid defensive infielder who brings a wide variety of tools to the ball park everyday,” said Meade. “his physical tools are only outweighed by his work ethic and desire to be the best.”

Henderson, a member of the Dobyns-Bennett High School team, is currently 10-1 in his career on the mound. He has struck out over 100 batters during his career with a 1.50 ERA. Henderson was coached by Mike Ritz. The Indians of Dobyns-Bennett won the Big-9 conference championship and finished runner up in the District 1-AAA Tournament.

“Lucas is not only a tremendous pitcher, but a great athlete that has the potential to make an immediate impact,” said Meade. “We expect big things out of Lucas in his career at Milligan.”

Matthews played at University School for head coach Joe Borden. This past season, Matthews hit .403 with 19 runs, eight doubles and 23 RBIs. University School finished second in the TSSAA District 1-A tournament and earned a bid to the Region 1-A tournament.

“Nathan is a great fit, both athletically and academically,” commented Meade. “He has a high upside and we have nothing but big expectations for his future in the program.

Simo, a product of Florence Darlington (S.C.) Tech, hit .310 with 27 runs, 20 RBIs, ten doubles and four home runs for head coach Curtis Hudson.

“We are very excited to have Marc in the program, not only is he a tremendous proven talent both offensively and defensively, but also posses the leadership qualities that we know will help lead us to success on the next level,” added Meade. “We have high expectations for Mark and his career as a Buffalo.”