Friday, August 18, 2006

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (August 18, 2006) - Local product Matt McGahey (Jonesborough, Tenn.) has joined the ETSU baseball program after transferring from Virginia Tech, head coach Tony Skole announced Friday.  McGahey, a 6-3 left-handed pitcher, spent two seasons in Blacksburg, and will be eligible to compete for the Buccaneers in the upcoming season.  He will have two years of eligibility remaining.

"Matt has a ton of potential, and our staff is excited about him continuing his education and baseball career at ETSU," said Skole.

In two seasons with the Hokies, McGahey posted a 2-2 record with 31 strikeouts in 22 career appearances.  This past summer he played for the Staunton Braves in the prestigious Valley League in Virginia.  With the Braves he compiled a 2-2 record with two saves in 20 appearances while striking out 28, walking just 14 and holding opponents to a paltry .220 batting average.

"He has had a great summer, and I am anticipating him making an immediate impact in our program," said Skole.

The Bucs will look to the Science Hill alum to add depth to a pitching staff depleted by the departures of three-year ace Jeremy Hall and star closer Steven Calicutt.  Both were selected in Major League Baseball's amateur draft in June.

"I am honored to continue my baseball career at ETSU," said McGahey.  "It's very exciting to come back home and have the opportunity to play in front of family and friends that haven't had the chance to see me play in awhile."