Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Baseball Signs Pitcher Jordan Powell
04/19/2005 | 12:00:00 | Baseball
April 19, 2005
By Jeff Honza
www.SIUSalukis.com
CARBONDALE, Ill. - Jordan Powell has been in Danville his whole life, but next year, he'll be in Carbondale, as it was announced today that he signed a national letter of intent to play baseball for Southern Illinois University in 2006.
Powell attended Danville High School and is presently a sophomore at Danville Area Community College.
After recording 48 strikeouts in 56.3 innings as a starting pitcher a year ago, Powell is currently the Jaguars' closer, who boasts a team-leading 6-1 record, 2.02 ERA and four saves. He also ties for second on the team with 25 strikeouts in 26 innings.
SIU head coach Dan Callahan thinks Powell's versatility will help his pitching staff immediately.
"Coach Wolff and I had the opportunity to see Jordan pitch, and we both came away equally impressed," said Callahan. "He will throw his fastball in the low 90s, has a nice slider and is very competitive."
"He's been used in a variety of situations throughout his career, and we hope his success carries over to his days as a Saluki," he continued.
Jaguar head coach Tim Bunton says Powell was initially disappointed about being moved to the bullpen this season, but has done a fantastic job since taking on his new role.
"Jordan loves crunch time and being in close games," said Bunton. "His velocity ranges from 89-91 and he consistently throws 2-3 pitches for strikes. I think he'll be a good addition to SIU's staff."
A right-hander who stands at 6-1, 210, Powell was also named the Jaguars' Most Valuable Player in 2004. Prior to that, he was a four-time all-conference pick at Danville High School.
"It's been good for me to go to a junior college because in the last two years, I've really learned how to pitch," said Powell. "I think I can bring a lot to the Saluki program."
Powell joins Charlie Weber (P, Murphysboro, Ill.) and Cody Adams (P/SS, Viola, Ill.) in SIU's 2006 class.
