Jets sign baseball papers

James Clemens baseball players, from left, Caleb Caple, Kyle Castelein, Michael Mays and Jacob Phillips signed athletic scholarships Friday. Caple will play at Calhoun Community College and the other three signed with Marion Military Institute. CONTRIBUTED

By MIKE EASTERLING / For the Record

MADISON – The first high school baseball game of the season is still two days away for James Clemens, but four Jets got an early start on celebration their senior year.

Jacob Phillips, Kyle Castelein, Michael Mays and Caleb Caple all signed scholarships to play the sport In college. And estimated 200 friends, teammates, coaches and relatives convened at the school’s Landing for a ceremony to recognize the four students Friday.

Caple signed with Calhoun Community College. Castelein, Phillips and Mays are all headed to Marion Military Institute. Caple is a first baseman and left-handed pitcher. Castelein is an infielder/outfielder, Phillips a third baseman and right-handed pitcher and Mays is an infielder and right-handed pitcher.

Those four are part of a senior class who were on the varsity as freshmen when James Clemens opened. They will play no small role if the Jets surpass last season’s record of 21-15. The Jets advanced to the playoffs for the second time, but loss to Huntsville in the first round.

“They have a lot of experience,’’ said Shane Medlen, who has been the Jets coach in all four years of their existence. “I hope it pays off.’’

James Clemens plays in Class 7A, Area 8 along with Bob Jones, Hazel Green and Sparkman. The Senators advanced to the state semifinals last season.

The Jets open the season Friday against Helena at Thompson in the annual challenge between Huntsville- and Birmingham-area teams.

James Clemens’ home opener is Feb. 26 against Pelham.