Eagles star catcher Grant Roberts has verbally committed to play at Odessa College next season.  After Roberts impressed at an extensive workout, WJCAC Coach of the Year Kurtis Lay offered the Richardson senior a scholarship.  He becomes the first player from the Eagles highly touted class of 2018 to commit. 

He's a strong defensive catcher with huge offensive potential," Lay said.  Assistant Coach Logan Parker said, "our already strong recruiting class of 2018 just got a lot stronger."

The reigning WJCAC champions had 9 All-Conference players in 2017 and posted an overall record of 46-13.  In the classroom, the Wranglers boasted 10 Academic All Americans and were recognized by the NJCAA for their team wide 3.17 GPA.  Three graduates are headed to the Big 12 to further their careers, and one to the MLB draft.

"I like what they're building," said the Eagles iron man with a smile and a nod.   "It just feels right.  The baseball, the academics, the environment....it's something you want to be a part of."

For his part, Roberts is a major coup for the Wranglers.  Years of elite level tournament and travel play have earned the Eagles catcher a national reputation for his leadership, tenacity and cannon arm.  His standout summer performances culminated in his inclusion in the Major League Baseball prospect database for the 2018 MLB Draft.

Roberts commitment kicks off what looks to be another strong season for Richardson players headed to the collegiate ranks.  Eagles coach Mike Tovar will be looking to expand on the program's 2017 success, where 3 of 5 graduating seniors committed to play college baseball.