LSU Southpaw Becomes Third Tiger To Sign With Wilson
WILSON, N.C. - Ryan Byrd, a junior left-handed pitcher out of Louisiana State University, has signed on to be part of the Wilson Tobs' staff for the 2008 season. He follows collegiate teammates Paul Bertuccini and Chris McGhee to Wilson. The Denham Springs, La., native is no stranger to summer collegiate baseball. In 2005, he was named the Central Illinois Collegiate League Pitcher of the Year after recording a 5-1 mark and a 1.91 ERA for the Danville Dans.
"I know the Coastal Plain League is very competitive," Byrd said. "I am really excited about waking up and heading to the field almost every day. It should be a lot of fun playing for Coach Steele and meeting my new teammates."
During his three seasons at LSU, Byrd has evolved into a pitcher with excellent control. His sophomore season of '07 was by far his best, when he posted a 6-2 record in a team high12 starts. In 68 innings, he walked just 21 and struck out 35, while holding opposing batters to a .288 average.
"Ryan is a crafty lefty with outstanding control," said LSU head coach Paul Mainieri. "He works in his fastball and change up, and he's been able to develop a good curve. You'll never see him crack under pressure."
A graduate of Denham Springs High School, Byrd was a member of the All-State and All-District teams during his freshman, junior, and senior seasons. In 2004, he received Louisville Slugger All-America Honors. He finished his career with 37 victories and a miniscule 1.71 ERA.
Byrd has appeared in 11 games on the mound for the Tigers this season, recording an even 1-1 record in 24 innings. He has walked just seven hitters, an average of less than one base on balls per three innings.
"I always come right at the hitters, and let them hit it," he stated. "My pitch count is never up. I just try to hit my spots and let the defense do the work. It's important to have faith in the guys behind you."
Though he is just a junior in college, Byrd exhibits the qualities and attributes of a crafty veteran on the mound. When asked what goals he would like to achieve this summer with the Wilson Tobs, he responded with the poise and dedication of a professional.
"I've actually never been a part of a championship team," Byrd said. "It's still something to shoot for. That's why you play the game. We want to bring a championship home to Wilson this summer."
The Tobs' season begins on Wednesday, May 28, when they travel to Wilmington to take on the Sharks at 7:05 PM. Wilson will host its home opener on Friday, May 30 against the Florence RedWolves, with first pitch also scheduled for 7:05 PM.
The Wilson Tobs are a member of the Coastal Plain League, the nations hottest summer collegiate baseball league. Celebrating its twelfth season, the Coastal Plain League features 14 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. The CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with the use of wooden bats. Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both players and hosts. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league website at www.coastalplain.com.
Contact:Ben Jones
(252) 291-8627