Baseball star Jeff Taylor Jr., who holds the ODAC record for stolen bases, was recently signed by the Cincinnati Reds.
“I’m very excited to continue to play baseball at a competitive level, and I think that LC has prepared me to take the next step,” said Taylor, who is scheduled to graduate in August. “This is an opportunity for me to show what I can do, and I am grateful to the Reds for giving me that shot.”
Taylor finished his career at Lynchburg as the all-time stolen base leader, holding the Old Dominion Athletic Conference record as well. He ended his tenure at Lynchburg as the all-time games played and started leader, and was also a two-time All-ODAC first-teamer. He posted a .356 career batting average (218-613), scoring 133 runs and driving in 121 over his four years at LC.
“He certainly has the ability to play at that level; he works hard; and we as a program are very appreciative of the Reds organization on giving him a chance to showcase his talents,” said LC head coach Percy Abell.
Taylor will report to the rookie-level Arizona League (AZL) where he will join the Arizona League Reds. The AZL Reds compete in the Central Division of a 12-team, three division setup. Play begins on June 21, as the Reds will battle the AZL Dodgers at 7 p.m. in Glendale, Arizona.