Castagnini and Harris sign Division I letters of intent

Two Barton Community College baseball players signed NCAA Division I letters of intent Thursday at the Kirkman Activity Center on the Barton campus.  Sophomores Federico Castagnini and Jason Harris committed to four-year schools on the second day of the early signing period.  Both players will move on to nationally acclaimed schools as Castagnini signed with Creighton University and Harris signed with the University of North Carolina Charlotte. 

Federico Castagnini 
Castagnini, who is originally from Verona, Italy, signed with Creighton over Richmond University, Coastal Carolina, and Liberty University.  Citing the overall school, baseball program and facilities, and the city of Omaha as being deciding factors in his decision process, Castagnini will enjoy his future playing years in Omaha's TC Ameritrade Park, home to the College World Series.

"It's nice for me to sign early because I won't have to think about it anymore," said Castagnini.  "I'll be able to concentrate on the season and accomplishing the goals we've set as a team."

In his freshman season, Castagnini batted .294 and was second on the team in stolen bases. Anchoring the Cougar defense from his shortstop position, Castagnini led the team with 139 assists.

"Federico is still learning the game and adjusting to the level of play but has the talent to potentially be a professional," said Barton Baseball Head Coach Mike Warren.  "Creighton will be a good fit for him both academically and to further develop his playing skills."

Jason Harris 
Harris hasn't thrown an official pitch for the Cougars yet as the season begins in the spring, but has impressed coaches with his performances in the Fall pre-season.  Harris drew interest from South Alabama, University of Texas Arlington, and Richmond University but chose the University of North Carolina Charlotte to continue his career.  Over the past seven seasons, UNC has won over 30 games and reached the NCAA Regionals last season.

"I really enjoyed the staff, the college, and the Charlotte area," said Harris on his decision.  "I felt a trust in the staff at UNC they will help me further develop my pitching."

The 6'4" left hander from Austin, Texas, transferred to Barton from Abilene Christian.  At Abilene he started seven games and appeared in eleven, going 0-3 with a 7.39 earned run average. This past summer he found out about Barton through Mitch Slauter as the two were teammates in summer league.  Slauter, who was the starting catcher for the Cougars the past two seasons, is now on scholarship at Division I Mississippi State University.

"Harris has really improved and impressed a lot of people in his short time here," said Warren.  "His 6'4" height and being left-handed make him an attractive recruit but his ability continues to evolve and improve as he learns to refine and expand his delivery of pitches.  It would be no surprise to see both he and Castagnini have opportunities at the professional level."