UT Martin Signees from TN

Hi MktgAdMan. My son is John Hooper. He is a seinor at Goodpasture school in Nashville.
John is a good young man and I like to think at least ,a good pitcher. John has had the plesure of playing on some fine teams. for the past 4 years he has played summer ball for the TN. Athletics. With the help of this site, Bob, HV and the TN. top players site, coach Gregg Legg ( bama Bomber) and to many others to count, John is very excited about the future at UTM.

Great to hear from you, Hoop. Every good pitcher and staff needs a solid battery mate. My son is Chris Rezabek - a catcher from Bolton HS near Memphis. He's big (6'3" 195lbs) with defensive quickness and a strong accurate arm - and is a product of the Dulins Dodgers program. He's looking forward to catching John and excited about the talent of the incoming class. Will be a pleasure to meet you as well.

MKtgAdMan, Goodpasture was playing in the Brentwood tournament this weekend and I got to introduce myself to Blake Turner. he seemed like a great young man, was playing second and hit very well for the tourny.
I told John that I had met him and he said ohhh yea his dad said hi to me at the Chatanooga tournament. lol I think he would forget to tell me if the house was on fire.
Goodpasture had a good tourny, winning the turnament against Columbia central 9-2.
John has had a good week last week He pitched against Marshall County in the riverdale tournament and pitched a no hit shutout but took a little grief because Marshall was missing 4 of their players due to ACT testing.
well things have a way of working out, John pitched against Marshall again yesterday and notched his second no no in a row, and the 4 missing players where in the game. lol had a big grin after that game.

Gentlemen,

What made your sons decide on attending UTM? I would also appreciate any info. on Coach Cates, the program, and the university. Thanks.

I'll try to summarize all the factors that influenced Chris' selection of UT Martin:

1) HE WANTED TO HAVE A REALISTIC OPPORTUNITY TO COMPETE FOR A STARTING POSITION AS A FRESHMAN

He did not want to be caught up in the numbers game -- or "stockpiling" -- that often takes place at large colleges. Two SEC schools that showed interest in Chris had 5-6 catchers and 45-50 players taking part in Fall workouts.

Also, you have to be aware of who was signed at your position the previous year, as well as who is currently being recruited at your position. Chances are that if you follow Michael McHenry from Farragut to MTSU, you will probably see limited starting opportunities for 3 years.

2) COACH BUBBA CATES

Chris was impressed with Coach Cates from their first contact. Coach Cates is warm, honest, positive, a great teacher of the game, and cares deeply for his players. Unfortunately, Chris has played 4 years for a HS coach who is the direct opposite -- using negative criticism and threats to tear down a player as his means for motivation. Watching a UT Martin practice made such an impact on Chris with the positive productivity and teaching that took place.

And Coach Cates is determined to build a solid Division I baseball program at UT Martin that seeks talented freshmen that can contribute and produce immediately and over a 4-year period. Ben Meador, a freshman pitcher from Hendersonville HS, has quickly become the ace of the Skyhawk pitching staff. The foundation is being laid and Chris is excited at the chance to contribute his part.

3) TENNESSEE LOTTERY SCHOLARSHIP

Let's face it: there are no full scholarships in baseball. Division I schools have to split the $$$ for 11.7 scholarships over their entire squad. While Chris received his fair share, the available TN Lottery Scholarship $$$ worked in UT Martin's favor as a TN university. Am certain that more HS baseball players in the coming years will be considering staying "in state" to take advantage of this additional scholarship money.

Chris is also interested in either Sports Psychology or Sports Management as a major. The Psychology program is strong and a Sports Management concentration is offered.

The primary reasons for Chris' decision were #1 and #2 -- with #3 being the "gravy." I, too, am interested in Hoop's thoughts as well.

After reading M.A.M. post I would have to say that I could not have said it better.

#1 of M.A.M's post also had a lot to do with son's decision John wanted a chance to pitch some games his freshman year. not a guaranty but a fsir shot at it.
I also feel that coach Cates is determined to build a competative team. He has been involved in 32 championships of 1 type or another during his carrer. the coach knows how to teach and coach the game .
I was alos impressed with his personality quite and confident. knows what he is doing and how to get the job done.
I like the way he recruits, one player at a time. if he is talking to you about your son he is at least interested, and will shoot straight with you.
I really enjoyed our visit to UTM, not much glitz or show but wanted us to see and learn about the school and program and what they where about and trying to do.We all ate in the school cafateria. which I liked, we where there to find out about the school so I wanted to eat where john would if he attended school at UTM and learn about the school.
I also like M.A.M. feel very good about the direction that UTM is headed in.
I was sold during the visit at one point when I said to John { who is going to be taking engineering } " john playing ball and taking the majior you are going to is going to be very dificult"
Coach cates said your right MR. Hooper but he can do it if he really wants to and puts the effort into it.
dont get cought up in the race to go to a BIG name program but pick the school your son will be happy at.
PS the lottery money was invaluable to John also.

I don't know much about UTM baseball, but my oldest boy is a UTM graduate. He wasn't a student athlete, just a student.

I was very impressed with the university. Quality education. And it is reasonably priced.

The city of Martin, TN is small, but that can be a very good thing for a college student. Fewer distractions. More concentration on his studies and baseball.

Jackson, TN is a short drive away. Tennessee's fifth largest city. Big enough to offer entertainment, shopping, restaurants and other distractions.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love UTM. If you son happens to be into hunting and fishing, then UTM is the place for him. Reelfoot Lake and the Mississippi Flyway.

The UTM Campus is beautiful. It has been selected the prettiest college campus in America. If it's no longer #1, it's still way, way up there.

UTM is safe. UTM was named the safest college campus in America, the same year that it was named the prettiest.

The degree reads: The University of Tennessee

Thanks, Hoop, for adding your insight. And to BNA - appreciate the additional positives about the UT Martin campus and area.

Can anyone provide information or an assessment of Bryce Carden from Centennial HS? Heard he was a great two-sport athlete (baseball & basketball) and solid outfielder...

Bryce Carden:
(Info is from JUCO coach/friend)

Good body 6-5, 210; Athletic with above average speed, 6.8 sixty. He has alot of upside with the body and athleticism. You can assume that with the body and projection he could become a power guy.


PS- Thanks for everyone's input in response to my previous post.
Cates is bringing in some great athletes. UTM looks to be a great place to play D1 baseball against some of the best college programs in the country

hoop,

My son and I were at the first Marshall County game (Riverdale tourney) and got a chance to see your boy pitch in person. He looked really good out there. I liked Goodpasture's catcher too. I thought we might see some tempers flare up a bit after the contact at second base with him and a MC player but they managed to move past it. If I knew what you looked like I would've said hello.

Out of curiosity how hard does John throw? He looked like he was throwing pretty hard out there.

We were also at the championship game between Houston and Whitehouse. That center fielder for Houston can hit the ball.

Take care!

Jason

Noticed today on CoachT.com that IF Joe Raccuglia from Franklin HS has signed with Coach Bubba Cates' program at UT Martin. That's now five strong first-tier athletes from TN to commit to the Skyhawks. Word is that a couple more top players from West TN may also be on their way to UT Martin.

Congratulations to Joe and his family!

HI Adman, it sure seems as if coach cates is taking advantage of the lottery scholly.
Dont think anyone can say that UTM does not recruit instate.
I get more excited each day that we caome closer to college ball it sure is going to be a blast.
I hope your right about a few more from west TN. seems like they sure play some great ball in that part of the state.
seems as if recruiting is like a snowball get a few good one's and that helps you get some more quality players.

Cates just got another great pick up.

I watched Joe Raccuglia at the Blue Grey Classic in Knoxville this summer.

-He is ultra-athletic with super quick hands and feet and a world of potential.

-I have seen 60 times as low as 6.51, nice arm and actions in the MIF; Above average "athletic" strength generates nice bat speed.

-Mature makeup. Hard nosed and intellegent. Has a proffesional approach to the game.

Combine the athleticism and makeup, Joe Raccuglia could become a dandy for UTM. Cates has put together an impressive signing class. He seems to have just burst onto the scene and snatched up some real nice players.

Congrats to Joe Raccuglia and family.

Thanks, GoTigers, for the background on Joe and all your positive compliments about these young men and the UT Martin program under Bubba Cates.

Like you, Hoop, the excitement is building and we can hardly wait to see this talent together this fall!

And if they add even more.....

Does anyone know the season stats for these new recruits? Are these the only signees that UT Martin has presently?

John Hooper - P - Goodpasture
Bryce Carden - OF - Centennial
Blake Turner - IF - Brentwood
Joe Raccuglia - IF - Franklin HS

Chris Rezabek - C - Bolton HS

These five make up the top TN players currently committed. Have heard that a couple of West TN's best may also be added real soon.

Also, the UT Martin Web site referenced one out-of-state freshman signee: Ryan Hill - A 6'6" 205lb. RHP from T.C. Clark HS in San Antonio, TX.

Webcoach,

I can give you an evaluation of all the UTM signees except the TX signee. However, like most evaluaters, stats are irrelavent to me. Pro scouts and D1 coaches could care less how big or little a star you were in HS. They want tools and they want championship caliber makeup (work ethic). All of this years UTM signees have just that...tools and makeup.

You can throw the books in the trash...D1 ball players are D1 ball players. What you did in HS is over in a big way the second you step on campus. We dont even talk about stats...just tools and athleticism. But, I suppose these guys do all right in HS.

~Welcome to the board webcoach!!

All that's left is receiving the paperwork...

That's what we're hearing about ANOTHER top-notch TN performer (from West TN) signing with UT Martin and Coach Cates. Announcement should come soon.

Keep 'em coming!!!!

Im curious...Would you perhaps grace me with a name and/or position?

Thanks

GoTigers,
I appreciate your reply and your enthusiasm about these guys and the UTM program. I know and have seen three out of the four signers play for the last three years. Your assumptions may or may not be correct about how you "suppose these guys do all right in HS". I hope that they all are doing fine.

I have a couple of observations though from a couple of your comments. It seems that with the invention of the "Showcase Era" that from what I read it basically doesn't matter how a guy performs during the HS season anymore it matters most how they perform at a Showcase. Maybe hitting .185 during the HS year means that in college the player will suddenly start hitting .400. Usually a players stats reflect how well or poorly a person performs during a span of time. Obviously stats doesn't show the body type or the speed of a player but it does speak to how he uses them.

How a guy performs at a showcase and how an athlete performs during a real game situations can be totally two different things. Only the game stuff really matters to me. I believe showcases are important, for the most part. They serve the coaches and athletes well, but I believe both matter and that's why I asked for 2004 HS stats (if possible) of these guys because stats do speak volumes to caliber of athlete UTM is getting this year.

I see your point.

Your right, HS baseball is become less and less important. The at bats are few (Less that 100 often times) and competition is scared to throw to good players. Showcases and alot of the premier summer teams that all of the UTM signees play for provide better competition, more talent to compare a player too. The guys also get more at bats during the summer aginst kids that are also D1 caliber.

In closing, I see your point webcoach but I dont keep up with stats. You probably wont have much luck getting from anybody on this board because the dads (Hoop, MAM) wont want to be bragging on thier boys

Thanks

I agree that HS baseball is not a pretty game sometimes. Summer leagues (travel ball) is much more consistent and the talent pool is much more concentrated. Frankly summer time is when most of the recruiting from college coaches takes place.

I noticed showcase are real good for guys that can run and the three guys I know that UTM has signed can run. The jury is still out on the other tools.

Hi web coach, I will brag on one stat John has. He is really doing great at his school work all A's and one B. lol that B is in Clac. and I can tell you Mrs. smith is one tough teacher and John should more than be ready for his first year of college calc.
I do sometimes like to post about something special that John has done pitching wise, But try keep my comments and attitude positive about the whole team.
Goodpasture this year is doing very well so far. our strenths are a fine pitching staff and an offence that is a run scoring machine. I know that on the Coach T site they have the game record and scores so you could look there and draw some conclusions.

on the Coach T site is was posted that a Miles Moore had signed at UTM. I dont know if it is correct or not but if so congratulations Miles.

Hoop,
Thank you for the information. I am aware of Goodpasture baseball. They have always put competitive teams on the field. Congratulations to your son and your family.

It's wonderful to have dreams of playing baseball for a living, but college prepares young guys for their future.

webcoach I forgot to say, I would give you johns stats if i had them but to tell the truth I just dont know them.
I know his record is 5-1
has given up 1 run, earned or unearned in the last 16 innings pitched and has an ERA under 2.
thats about the best I can tell you with out just guesssing off the top of my head.

GoTigers -

Sorry for the delayed reply, but just returned from the Trojan Classic Tournament in Chattanooga. Was honoring Coach Cates' request regarding holding announcement until UT Martin made it official...but now Hoop and CoachT.com beat me to it:

Miles Moore - P - Crockett Co. HS

Probably old news by now, but wanted to honor your request. Believe there may be one more West TN addition, but no firm indication yet from Coach Cates.

The arrival of this Fall 2004 Class should make an immediate impact on the Skyhawks program.

Thanks Mktg,

You mentioned one more possible addition. For privacy sake, no name needed, but position would be great...thanks.

1B -- Dulin's Dodger in same district as Bolton...

Word is player was told "not to sign anywhere else" and that a scholarship offer would be "forthcoming". Will post additional info when available.

Thanks again for your continued interest and words of support for these fine men.

Thank you, Mktg, for your enthusiastic energy for the UTM program. It makes for great discussion. Also, I am aware of and have seen most all of the elite TN prep studs. When I see a program like UTM, aggresivley recruit the top talent and walk away with 5 of the top kids aroud..it raises an eyebrow. Kudos to UTM baseball...Keep us posted on any new signees!

UT Martin 2004-2005 Recruiting Class from Tennessee (as it now stands):

John Hooper - P - Goodpasture
Chris Rezabek - C - Bolton
Bryce Carden - OF - Centennial
Blake Turner - IF - Brentwood
Joe Raccuglia - IF - Franklin
Miles Moore - P - Crockett County

...and the list may continue to grow!

Received confirmation Sat. night that another announced Top TN Player signee for the UT Martin Skyhawks may come soon. Shelby Metro AAA performer in a solid program with state tournament experience.

Hey Mktg,

How you doing? May I ask the position of this new signee ("possible signee")? Thank you!

Sure... 1st Base.

Read about UT Martin's two newest signees - Joe Raccuglia and Miles Moore:

http://www.utmsports.com/fullstory.cfm?id=1309

More to come???

Congratulations to John Hooper - UT Martin signee from Goodpasture. John was impressive in his State Tournament outing against Rockwood, scattering 7 hits with 11 K's in an 8-1 win. Goodpasture appears to be the team to beat in Class A. Way to go, John!

UT Martin doesnt have much of a baseball program and it's not getting any better. I have watched them over the years and a good High School team can beat them this year. Unless you just weant to say that you played D1 baseball, I would suggest to look further. That is just my opinion but many others agree.

Jammer,
Coach Cates is doing a fine job of recruiting to build his program. John Hooper did a fine job of wadding up Rockwood and throwing them in the trash at the TSSAA State Tournament! I can testify to his pitching ability!
I have also seen Chris Rezabec behind the plate and he is the real deal.
I don't know the other signees, but if they are of the caliber of John and Chris, Bubba's program will be on the rise.

RHSfan

RHSFan , thanks for the comliment about John and I just wanted to say how grate I thought your team and parents where.
Your team and fans where a class act and we where proud of the chance to get out on the field with yall.