PHILIPPI, W.Va (WV News) — Albert Gonzales signed his letter of intent to join Nichols College baseball on Wednesday during Philip Barbour’s signing day event.
“I got the chance to visit last October, and I really enjoyed the program’s atmosphere,” Gonzales said. “They really showed a lot of interest in me. I felt like I was wanted there. It’s the next home.”
It’s a bit of a trek from Philippi as Nichols is located in Massachusetts. The school resides about an hour from Boston.
“I felt like I needed to go away,” Gonzales said. “Nichols showed interest, and the coaches really enjoyed having me there.”
Gonzales is seen as a middle infielder for the Bison, who are currently 21-9 on the season as their year continues. The team has been strong, hitting .326 as a team and raking 26 homers at the Division III level.
Gonzales should fit right in as someone who lives and breathes baseball.
“It’s always been a part of my life,” Gonzales said. “I love the game. It’s pretty awesome to go out, have fun and play the game.”
Part of that success came when he spent a summer with the East Coast Dodgers Scout Team. An LA hat lined the front of his table as he signed. He says that was the moment he knew he could move to the next level of play.
“I got the chance to play for a Dodgers scout team,” Gonzales said. “I saw a lot of competition and showcased my abilities against a lot of top players.”
Gonzales has a career batting average of .308, knocking 45 hits and 57 RBIs with five home runs. In 205 recorded plate appearances, he has struck out only 43 times.
He sees the challenge of college baseball that awaits but is confident that he can make the jump.
“The speed, the competition — it’s harder,” Gonzales said. “I can definitely compete with those guys.”
But before he gets there, there is the rest of his senior season ahead of him. The Colts are 9-8 and have won their last five games.
“I think we have a good chance of potentially making it to states,” Gonzales said. “It’s all in getting past our section. The region is pretty tough, but we have a solid chance.”
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