Jackson signs with CASC

By CRAIG HALL
CAMERON—During his long stay at Carl Albert State College, baseball coach Mark Pollard has had 14 all-Americans.

Six of those are from LeFlore County, including three from Cameron. Another Yellowjacket will be trying to fill those shoes next year as senior Chance Jackson has signed with CASC.

The right hander is one of the best pitchers in the county. His record is only 4-5, but Jackson usually takes the mound against the tougher teams such as Eufaula, Heavener and Roland.

Photo by CRAIG HALL Cameron's Chance Jackson signs with CASC Wedneday. Also pictured are his mother, Valerie Jackson, his father, Brian Jackson, brother Dillon Jackson, Cameron coach Kevin Lomon, CASC coaches Mark Pollard and Ryan Bowen.

He has a fastball that can reach the mid-80s and is starting to reach his potential, according to his coach Kevin Lomon.

“He’s shown a ton of improvement from the fall to the spring,” said Loman. “He’s always had it, he’s just put it together this spring.

“He’s got all our tough ones this year. It’s obvious every coach we have played is in awe of him. “He’s just got it figured out how to put it all together.”

One of Jackson’s most memorable games this year was in the LeFlore County Tournament against Heavener, when he faced off against the Wolves’ Koda Glover.

The two hooked up in a classic as Glover struck out 14 while Jackson had eight. The final score was 1-0 as the Wolves scored one run in the sixth inning to escape.

For Jackson, this is a dream come true for him.

“This is kind of a real shock to me to get a scholarship,” he said prior to his signing. “It’s something I have always wanted to do.”

He echoed his coach’s thoughts on his improvement.

“Last year I did pretty good,” Jackson said. “This year I have done exceptionally good.”

Carl Albert was his first choice and the only school he really considered. Jackson said he wanted to stay close for the first two years and having a former Cameron player, CASC assistant Ryan Bowen recruit him made it even better.

Jackson has pitched in 11 games and 58 innings. He has struck out 93 opponents and has an ERA of 3.02. The senior also plays catcher and is batting .353 with two home runs and 16 RBI.