The Brazos Valley Bombers received an enormous upgrade to their infield today as they announced the signing of two catchers and a power hitting first baseman. Nelson, Udell, and Vaughn should prove to be valuable additions as the Bombers make a run at the TCL Championship in August.
Having been selected team captain in football at Bastrop High School and spending the past two years at the Air Force Academy, Brian Nelson epitomizes leadership and discipline. He lettered three years in football and baseball in high school and was named Team MVP, as well as a 1st team All-District selection in baseball his senior season. In addition to being named team captain, he was also an All-District wide receiver and safety in football. While battling through numerous injuries the last few seasons, he has shown resiliency in trying to get back to playing form. Although he was a medical redshirt this past season at Air Force after tearing his labrum, he expects to be ready to contribute this summer for the Bombers.
Udell brings versatility to the Bombers not often found in a catcher. At MacArthur High School in San Antonio, he pitched, caught, and played the outfield for a team that made the playoffs twice. His senior year, he was named team MVP after hitting .330 with four home runs and 12 doubles. Udell also starred in football at MacArthur as the quarterback, punter, and kicker and was selected to the all-district team twice. Udell was redshirted his first year at Baylor and has seen limited action this season, but expects to contend for the starting job next season.
Vaughn’s combination of power and defensive ability should prove valuable to a Brazos Valley team that was in need of a solid first baseman. The six-foot three-inch freshman from Mississippi expects to be a solid contributor for a dangerous Ole Miss team next year. Vaughn lettered three years at Memorial High School and was selected 1st Team All-District and 2nd Team All-State his senior season after hitting .426 with 12 home runs. Last summer, Vaughn played for Houston Heat, a select baseball team known for producing Major League talent, such as the Tampa Rays’ starting pitcher, a former first round draft pick, Scott Kazmir.
With the season less than a month away, it’s time to gear down and get ready for the upcoming season. Come and join the fun as you have a chance to see star players from all of over the country play in the TCL this summer. Season tickets may be purchased online at bvbombers.com, by phone at (979) 779-PLAY, or by visiting the Bombers offices at 405 Mitchell Street in Bryan.