Marlins Sign Two Ivy Leaguers

From our Press Release:

Morehead City, N.C. - The Morehead City Marlins announced today that the team has received commitments from two players representing schools in the Ivy League. The Marlins welcome both Brian Billigen and Jake Carlson to the 2011 squad.

Brian Billigen, a junior at Cornell University, started 37 games in the outfield as a sophomore for the Big Red. He hit .291 and was tied for the team lead in home runs with five. During a breakout freshman season at Cornell, Billigen hit .404 and was named second-team All-Ivy League. Billigen also played in the Coastal Plain League in 2010, as well, as he recorded a .325 batting average, six home runs, and 34 runs batted in for the Edenton Steamers. He was named to the American CPL All-Stars and participated in the Coastal Plain League’s Home Run Derby.

“Brian’s got a chance, professionally, to be a great prospect,” said Marlins manager, Jay Bergman. “He has a good arm that he showed against us in the playoffs last year, and he’ll be a middle of the order guy in our lineup.”

A junior at Dartmouth College, Jake Carlson will contribute to the Marlins outfield with his outstanding defensive capability. During the NCAA Regional Championships last season, Carlson made SportsCenter’s daily ‘Top 10’ with a diving catch against Miami University. The second-team All-Ivy outfielder will also solidify Morehead City’s lineup with his exceptional bat. As a sophomore at Dartmouth, Carlson hit .313 in 163 plate appearances. Last summer, Carlson was also participated in the Coastal Plain League, batting .245 and stealing 16 bases for the Fayetteville SwampDogs.

“Jake’s a tremendous player, as we saw all of last summer,” said Coach Bergman. “He has a lot of pop in his bat, and he has great foot speed. He’ll be a welcomed addition to our outfield.”

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My take:

Brian Billigen seems to be one of the key players next season for us. Edenton did not play in our division, but I do remember Brian at the all star game and during the playoffs. He can just about do it all on the diamond. He has surprisingly good power despite his small frame. That has to do with his quick stroke and ability to drive the ball. I can't wait to see him play everyday.

I don't remember watching Jake Carlson last year as I was once again running around the concourse during the games. But I do know he is an exceptional outfielder, with the ability to chase down balls with the best of them. Our spacious field only plays to his strengths. Another player I can't wait to see in action during the summer.

Overall, two great and talented kids.