Pirates' Jolly moving on to the next level at CRC

Former Gosnell Pirate Tayler Jolly inked a letter of intent to attend Crowley's Ridge College on a baseball scholarship recently.

Jolly, a four-year starter for the Pirates, was a versatile piece to the Gosnell puzzle.

Playing infield, outfield, starting pitcher and relief pitcher, there were few, if any, situations that Pirate head coach Bret Jackson could not use Jolly.

"High school was a lot of fun," said Jolly. "We worked hard and I learned a lot."

Jolly's versatility was one of the main attractions for CRC head coach Paul McFadden, along with getting a good young man for his program.

"I have liked Tayler since the first day I met him," said McFadden. "I think he is a mature young man that will come in and work hard for our program. He will be of help to us on the mound as both a starter and reliever but he will be able to contribute in other positions including shortstop and outfield."

Jolly is grateful for the opportunity to continue his baseball career at the next level.

"It feels good," he said. "I signed late but I'm happy to get a chance to continue playing ball in college."

Jolly is one of three former Pirates who will continue playing baseball at the college level next year. Blake Sullivan signed with Three Rivers Community College and Jay Chandler will join Jolly at CRC.

In 2013, Jolly earned 3-4A All-conference honors, All-CN honors and is currently helping the Blytheville ANC Casons in the AAA Legion State Tournament in Mountain Home.

afitzpatrick@blythevillecourier.com