[November 17, 2006]

MAGNOLIA, Ark. – Southern Arkansas Coach Allen Gum has announced the signing of five athletes to the Mulerider baseball program. In his first season last year, Gum led SAU to the Gulf South Conference championship and a berth in the South Central Region tournament, and feels these signees will add to the success of the program. “We are excited about all five guys that we signed and the intangibles that they bring to the field,” said Gum. “We firmly believe that every one of these athletes is exactly what we are looking for and each one will have the chance to be an immediate impact in our lineup,” added the coach.

Inking with Southern Arkansas is Tyler Alston, a 6-0, 200-pound catcher from Magnolia, via Panola (Texas) College. Alston hit .395 last season at Coffeyville (Kan.) College.

“Tyler is an outstanding catcher who enjoyed a decorated high school career at Magnolia High,” said Gum. He was a three-year starter for the Panthers, an All-State selection, and participated in the Arkansas High School All-Star game as a senior. Gum added, “Tyler has a complete understanding for the game and will help us offensively and defensively.”

Jason Dahl is a 5-11, 175-pound outfielder out of Des Arc. As a junior last year, Dahl hit .628, had 15 doubles and five homeruns, and stole 50 bases.

“Jason is a tremendous athlete who’s not only an outstanding baseball player, but an All-State quarterback as well,” stated Gum.

Moses Munoz is a 6-0, 180-pound left-handed pitcher from Shreveport, La., and Bossier Parish Community College. He possesses a fastball in the upper 80’s and has the ability to locate all of his pitches effectively.

Gum said, “Moses has the ability to be an impact player for us…and will be a valuable part of our pitching staff.”

Hayden Simpson is a 5-10, 170-pound shortstop and right-handed pitcher out of Magnolia, who throws in the upper 80’s.

“He’s another tremendous athlete who’s also an All-State quarterback as well,” the coach said. “His pitching ability gives him the opportunity to have an immediate impact.”

The fifth signee is Zac Ray, a 6-5, 200-pound right-handed pitcher from Jacksonville, via Crowder (Mo.) College. He possesses a fastball that ranges anywhere from 88-92.

Gum stated, “We’re excited about seeing Zac in a Mulerider uniform…he’s a big, strong, hard-throwing pitcher that will come here and be a big part of our pitching staff.”

#SAU#