Brock slugger takes talents to Howard

Greg Webb
sports@weatherforddemocrat.com

August 06, 2008 11:17 am

— Former Eagles third baseman Trace Reynolds will take his strong arm and big stick west later this month as he begins classes and dons the uniform to play for the Howard College Hawks in Big Spring. The chance to attend college and continue wielding the bat has been a long-term dream for the Brock graduate.
“I’ve always known that I wanted to play at the college level,” Reynolds said, “but I just didn’t know where that would be.
“So, when I went out to [Howard College], I liked the coaches really well and they liked me, so it worked out.”
Long being accustomed to playing in winning programs, the slugger’s interest in Howard was not only piqued by the recent success of the Hawks, but also by the facilities where the college’s home games will be played.
“Not only did I like the coaching staff, but they were [ranked] like third in the nation last year, so they have a good team,” Reynolds said. “Their field is real nice, and it’s a hitter’s park.”
Though Reynolds was a frequent pitcher in Brock’s rotation, he believes that his playing career at Howard will be as a position player, guarding the third base line and helping the Hawks’ offense with run production. Regardless, the Brock alum looks to begin making contributions right away.
“The coaches have been telling me I will [get playing time],” Reynolds said, “so hopefully, that will be the case.”
Reynolds has another reason to be excited about attending Howard and playing ball. He won’t be going alone, so to speak. Former Brock teammate Tanner Ross will be taking his school supplies and glove to Howard, as well.
“I really like that because Tanner and I are pretty good buddies, and have been through high school,” Reynolds said. “In fact, [Howard] will have four players from Parker County this year.”
While Big Spring is not exactly the center of recreation for Texas, Reynolds is good with that, as the focus will be to get an education and play baseball.
“There’s not a lot to do out there, but that’s OK. It will help keep us out of trouble,” Reynolds said with a grin.
Reynolds has yet to decide what direction his studies will take him at Howard. First order of business is to get back into the swing of attending classes, keeping the grades up and swinging the bat.