The Jacksonville State University baseball program started in 1931 and Todd Jones was their first player to make it to the Major League level. Major League pitcher Tom Drake attended Jacksonville State Teachers College during the 1930's, but did not play for the Gamecocks (he did, however, play four years for the Troy State Trojans).

The Jacksonville State University Mission Statement has a main Goal: "To give the student-athlete the competitive 'edge' in career placement." What is the edge?

E: Evaluate the skills and interests of the student-athlete as relevant to career considerations.

D: Define a career plan engaging academic requirements.

G: Growth through workshops, job fairs, and internships.

E: Exit preparation through interview skills, resume writing and the construction of a personal web page.

Source: JSU Mission Statement.

Did you know that there are three former Jacksonville State University players who made it to the show? Send corrections or updates to Baseball Almanac.