By Beth Renkoski

07/13/09

Akins and Jessup Making Their Way

Vanguard University's Nick Akins and Richard Jessup have posted very successful beginnings to their professional baseball careers.  Akins, a rookie league outfielder, is batting .357 in his first 15 games, while Jessup, a right-handed pitcher, has a 2-1 record after four starts at the Independent League level.

Nick Akins

Akins was drafted in the 19th round of the Major League Baseball draft last month by the Los Angeles Dodgers.  Sent to play rookie ball for the Dodgers in the Arizona League, Akins has continued the power surge he provided for the VU Lions in the 2009 season.  Akins has three home runs, four doubles, and a triple in 56 at bats, with 13 runs batted in and a .625 slugging percentage.  In addition, he has an on base percentage of .422 with 11 runs scored and a pair of stolen bases, helping the Dodgers to an 10-8 record and third place in the AZL West standings.

Follow Nick Akins' progress through the Arizona League using the following link:  http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/clubs/ip_index.jsp?sid=milb&cid=t2690

Rich Jessup

Jessup signed a contract in June and began his professional career with the Amarillo Dillas in the United League Baseball.  Earning victories in two of his first three decisions on the mound, Jessup leads the Dillas with a 2.79 ERA as of today.  He has struck out 19, walked 17, and allowed 31 hits in 39 innings pitched, helping the Dillas to a 17-14 overall record and a second place standing in the ULB.  The Dillas will continue the season this evening by hosting the Laredo Broncos.

Follow Rich Jessup and the Amarillo Dillas using the following link:  http://www.myamarillodillas.com/