FARMINGTON — A former Mt. Blue athletic standout has been making a solid contribution to the University of Maine at Farmington’s baseball team this spring. Sophomore Bradley Jackson was leading the Beaver pitching staff in wins, boosting a 2-0 record.
Jackson is 2-0 in two starts with 13 innings pitched along with a 3.46 ERA. Last week, Jackson picked up a big win for the Beavers, beating Bates, 6-4.
“Against Bates I was keeping the ball low,” Jackson said. “We had a couple of great defensive plays in the field, including a big one by shortstop Jimmy Neal (another Mt. Blue grad).”
UMF claimed a doubleheader sweep over Lyndon State, Sunday afternoon, at Kents Hill School, giving the Beavers a strong hold on third place in the North Atlantic Conference, just one-half game behind second place Castleton. Husson sits atop the league standings.
“Defense and pitching has been our strong attribute,” Jackson said. “We need to start getting some timely hits.”
Thus far Jackson has been assigned to pitch in non-conference games giving the hurler time to gain his confidence. The win over Bates was certainly a boost in the right direction.
“Bates was a good chance to get my confidence up,” Jackson said. “I’m hoping to get a chance to pitch in a conference game.”
Jackson pointed to the help of the Beavers only senior, veteran hurler Joe Sullivan, as being a key ingredient for the team’s success this season. Noting Sullivan has been extremely helpful to the younger players by giving advice and helping them better understand the game.
“Joe has taught me everything, from stretching to game preparation,” Jackson said. “He’s our ace and has been a big help to the pitching staff.”
Neal, a junior, carries a .288 average this season as the UMF shortstop and designated hitter. He has 15 hits in 52 at bats, along with 12 RBI and eight stolen bases.
UMF will square off against Thomas College, Wednesday afternoon, at a field to be determined. Games are slated for 1 and 3:30 p.m.
dmclaughlin@sunmediagroup.net
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