John Magnuson (Elk Run Heights, IA/ Waterloo East) of the Marshalltown Community College baseball team has committed to join the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff Golden Lions next season.
A versatile infielder, Magnuson started in 37 games this season for the Tigers in the 2017 which was his first official season of participation. In his first season at MCC after being granted a medical hardship in his initial season after sustaining a season ending knee injury in his first game as a Tiger.
"I just want to thank the coaching staff and faculty members at Marshalltown. I also want to thank each and every one of my teammates that were a part of the 'Tiger Family'. My time at Marshalltown was one I won't forget," Magnuson stated. " I feel the coaches really helped me develop to be able to play at the next level and I can't wait for this opportunity."
Magnuson tallied 26 hits, 6 of them being extra bases on his way to a .260 batting average in this season's campaign. He also posted a .414 on base percentage while being a consistent force in the middle of the Tiger lineup. Magnuson primarily played second base but also spent time at shortstop and as the designated hitter throughout the season.
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff participates at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I level in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SAC). They are coached by Carlos James who has led them to SAC Western Division titles in 2014, 2015, and 2016. This year the Golden Lions posted a 15-31 overall record.
"The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff plays a tough schedule that will bring out the best in me and I can't wait to help out the team reach our full potential," Magnuson exclaimed.
"It is a great opportunity for John at Pine Bluff. John was as good as it gets in his leadership skills, he set the tone for us the last two year on the field off the field and in the classroom," MCC Head Coach Rich Grife commented. "He is a great kid who did great things while he was here and will be missed greatly. We are very happy that he is getting the opportunity to play Division 1 baseball, that has always been his goal. No doubt he going to achieve great things down the road.
Magnuson becomes the 10th Tiger Baseball player to officially commit or sign a letter of intent to a four year school for next season.
