The Brazos Valley Bombers announced today the signing of University of Memphis outfielder Tyler Huelsing and pitcher Marcus Barnes for the 2008 season. The pair add depth and flexibility to strong roster as the Bombers prepare for their second TCL season.
Known as a defensive specialist, Huelsing’s range and speed on the basepaths helped the sophomore nab the starting left field job for the Tigers this season. He leads the team with 12 walks and has registered a .325 on-base percentage, adding ten runs scored and ten RBI in 17 starts this year. Prior to joining Memphis, Huelsing starred at Munford (Tenn.) High School, where he was a three-time all-district honoree and was twice named to the all-region team. In his senior season he hit a whopping .470 with eight home runs after a junior campaign that featured a .458 average and 18 extra-base hits. He belted more than 20 home runs and drove in over 80 runs in his prep career.
Though he’s just a freshman, Barnes is already proving that he is a force to be reckoned with at the collegiate level. The talented southpaw is tied for the team lead with seven appearances out of the bullpen, compiling a 2.45 ERA and 18 strikeouts in just 14.2 innings pitched. Barnes’ performance should come as no surprise, though, after his success at Oakland High School in Murfreesboro, Tenn. He went 9-1 with an incredible 1.01 ERA and 78 strikeouts as a senior to earn all-state honors. In his junior season, he posted a whopping 95 strikeouts in just 49 innings pitched. Demonstrating his versatility, Barnes also batted .375 with 11 home runs and 22 stolen bases as a senior.
Huelsing, Barnes and the rest of the Bombers will open the team’s second season of play on June 10 when they travel to Coppell to face the defending TCL champion Copperheads. The two teams will return to Brazos Valley for the Bombers’ home opener on June 12. Season tickets are currently available by visiting the Bombers online at www.bvbombers.com, calling (979) 779-PLAY, or visiting the team’s offices at 405 Mitchell Street in Bryan.