Brentwood Home Page news reports
Trevecca pitcher P.J. Francescon, a 6-foot-1 junior from Nolensville, joined a former Ravenwood High teammate in getting drafted in the Major League Baseball Amateur Draft last week.

Francesco, who transferred from Middle Tennessee State University before the 2010-11 school year, was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 40th round of the 2011 draft.

Another former RHS standout, Western Kentucky University senior outfielder Kes Carter. was picked by the Tampa Bay Rays in the second round as the 56th pick overall.

Francescon was surfing on his laptop when his name was called.

"I had been following along for two days waiting to be picked," he said. "As soon as it was announced my phone went crazy and my mom came home early to celebrate. There were tears of joy."

As to whether he'll sign, Francescon says that it is possible: "We'll talk with the Cubs and if their offer is right I'll have to consider signing."

Francescon produced a 6-2 record overall this season with a 3.28 earned run average. He had a team-high six complete games and two shutouts with 66 strikeouts over 68.2 innings pitched.

Opposing batters hit just .266 against Francescon this year. Francecson turned it up in TranSouth conference games with a 6-0 with a 2.12 ERA while striking out 43 in 42.1 innings pitched.

 Francescon had a career-high 14 strikeouts against Martin Methodist in the TranSouth Tournament. The junior was named TranSouth Pitcher of the Week twice.

Francescon said he thanks all of his coaches, in particular Trevecca pitching coach Luke Brown, "Coach Brown is the one who developed my changeup and improved my mechanics. You could see the results as the year progressed."

As for Coach Burton, Francescon said he is thankful for his trust and re-opening the door to baseball.

"I had gotten out of baseball after my injury and he gave me a chance to come back. He believed in me and I'll always be grateful for that. Coach Thomas was great as well. He supported me as did the entire team. I'm really thankful for the chance to play again at Trevecca."

Trevecca pitching coach Luke Brown, a former NAIA All-American pitcher, says Francescon is someone that has earned this opportunity:

"P.J. is deserving to be drafted. He is one of the most gifted pitchers I've coached or played with. I'm extremely happy for P.J. and proud of the way he handled his role this year for our team. He is a pleasure to coach every day."

Fellow Trojans pitcher Craig Stem was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 15th round. This is the first time Trevecca has ever had two players drafted in the same year.