Earlier this month, Morgan County baseball’s Ben Atkinson and Skylar McCoy signed to play at the next level.
Both seniors will remain in the Peach State. Atkinson is signing with LaGrange College, and McCoy is heading to Middle Georgia State University. They’ve been big-time contributors for the Dogs the last few years.
Atkinson has been a solid arm for Morgan County on the mound throughout his career and this season.
The right-hander is excited about the next chapter in life and is ready to be a LaGrange Panther.
“I’m very excited about the chance to play baseball at LaGrange. They have an outstanding program, a well-respected coaching staff, and I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity,” Atkinson said. “I know they can develop me and maximize my potential. I appreciate all of the coaches who have helped me along the way.”
Morgan County head coach Steve Westmoreland said Atkinson has worked hard to reach the next level.
“Ben is the kind of kid that you love to coach. Those are the kids that give you some gratification as a coach, because he’d probably be classified as a late bloomer,” Westmoreland said. “He didn’t start pitching until the spring of his sophomore year, made a commitment to it over the last year, and just gets better and better and better. He’s going to throw some really big innings for us, and I’m really proud of what he’s done.”
McCoy has been dominant on the mound for Morgan County as a senior and throughout his career. He’s also a significant contributor to his team’s success at the plate this season, being one of its leaders in home runs.
Westmoreland noted that McCoy has been one of the team’s most consistent arms he has relied on this year.
“Skylar worked his way into that role,” Westmoreland said. “He’s also been one of our big run producers at the plate. Middle Georgia is getting a great two-way player. They’re going to let him play first base and pitch.”
McCoy looks forward to being a Middle Georgia Duke and credits his supporting cast for helping him reach this point.
“Thank you to the family, friends, coaches, and all relationships along the way,” McCoy said. “One of the biggest parts is my home at Morgan County, it is truly a family full of supporters. I’m happy to move into a new family at Middle Georgia. I thank God for the game and the lessons along the way, on and off the field.”