Priceville senior lefthander Jake Crow, a three-sport athlete, has signed a letter of intent to play baseball for Lawson State Community College in Birmingham next season.

“This is something I’ve always wanted to do,” the three-year varsity baseball player said. “I enjoyed the atmosphere on campus when I visited there and the baseball coaches were very nice. I’m excited about having the opportunity to play for them.”

Crow received a big hand of applause from his teammates and family members when he signed his scholarship. Afterward, light refreshments were served in the school library.

As a senior, Crow compiled a 2-2 record with a 1.7 ERA. He recorded 54 strikeouts and allowed 17 walks in 45 1.3 innings.

Crow said he would focus his studies on forensics and criminal justice.

“This is a big day for Jake,” head coach Shane Hopkins told players and guests. “Everyone of you had a part in it and I thank you for coming and sharing this moment with him.”

“Jake has always been a good relief pitcher for us,” Hopkins pointed out.” This year we had to have him step up and be our starter in the area tournament. “I think the sky is the limit as far as his college career is concerned.”

“It’s always good for our program when we have seniors who get the opportunity to play at the next level,” he added. “It not only shows what can be accomplished by a player who is devoted to the game and works hard to improve each day but is a motivator for the younger players.”

“He’s a lefthander and we expect him to throw a lot of innings for us from the get-go,” said Lawson State assistant baseball coach Gil Walker. “We view him as a diamond in the rough and a steal for our program.

Walker said Crow is one of 12 to 14 new players that will be signed for the 2014-2015 season.