MCC Eagles gear up for opener in scrimmage

By By Robby Atkinson/Special to The Star
Feb. 4, 2001
Let the season begin!
The 2001 Eaglefest banquet was a fun evening for all MCC baseball fans. It gave the community a chance to take a look at the 2001 MCC Eagle baseball team.
The highlight of the night was MSU baseball coach Pat McMahon.
McMahon was the guest speaker of the night for the event that also had several other special guests.
USM outfielder Michael Artman was in attendance along with Jason Smith and Paul Philips. Smith is currently in the Chicago Cubs organization and Philips is with the Kansas City Royals. Jamie Brown was also present for the banquet. Brown is with the Cleveland Indians and was a former pitcher with the Eagles.
The game was highlighted by a pair of home runs and dominant pitching. Ben Shannon belted a three-run home run in the contest and Josh Raggio also added a solo shot to lead the offense. Brian Reed was the highlight pitcher of the afternoon. Reed threw four innings and gave up only one hit to give Eagle fans something to watch.
MCC begins the season Friday when they travel to Florida to participate in the Okaloosa Walton Tournament. The Eagles' first home game wil be February 16 when MCC hosts the 2001 Rush Invitational Tournament.