By Bart Moss / For the FCT

Red Bay’s Hayden Murray will continue his baseball career at Stillman College next year. Murray signed a scholarship last week with the Tigers.

“This opportunity is something I have dreamed of ever since I was a kid,” said Murray. “Now, it is a reality.”

Murray had a batting average of .369, 31, three doubles, a triple and 19 RBIs at the plate. He also won seven games for the Red Bay Tigers, pitching 66 innings with a 2.01 earned run average. He walked 16 batters and struck out 62.

“My coaches and family have taught me discipline, determination, hard work and perseverance,” said Murray.  “I am very blessed for my mother, coaches and teammates for pushing me to be the best I can be. I can’t wait to represent Red Bay in the best way possible.”

Red Bay baseball coach Richard Maggerise said Murray’s leadership ability and work ethic will give him an advantage.

“Leadership is the best quality Hayden has,” said Maggerise.  “He is willing to work when nobody watches, and that’s what has allowed him to continue his athletic career.”

Maggerise said he believes Murray will make an immediate push to be a starter.

“I feel Hayden will immediately get to Stillman and push for a starting spot at second base,” explained Maggerise. “Offensively he has to continue to improve, but what I told every college coach when we discussed him was that his glove will make him a valuable asset immediately at the next level.”