Fayetteville, NC- The Fayetteville SwampDogs announced today the signing of two more players for the 2005 season. Michael McKenry of Middle Tennessee State and Chuck Hargis of East Tennessee State have signed to play with the ‘Dogs.

Michael McKenry is a versatile sophomore catcher from Middle Tennessee State. The 5’10”, 193-pound versatile catcher saw an impact amount of playing time with the Blue Raiders in his freshman season, and followed it by being named the #4 professional prospect in the Clark Griffith Collegiate League by Baseball America. McKenry, a native of Knoxville, TN, hit a grand slam in his first official college at bat with the Blue Raiders. McKenry has started his sophomore season on the right foot with 2 homeruns, 2 RBI’s and a team leading slugging percentage of 1.143%. Coach Handelsman is excited for the contribution that McKenry will add to the team this season. “Michael will be a great addition to our roster this summer. He can catch and throw with anyone, and has the ability to be an offensive threat as well. His make up is off the charts, and I expect him to be a team leader”.

Chuck Hargis is a speedy addition to the East Tennessee State lineup. Hargis is a transfer junior from Walters State Community College. In Hargis’s sophomore season he batted .317 with six homers and 33 RBIs. Hargis was also 25 for 28 in stolen base attempts. In Hargis’ freshman year he batted .366 with nine homers and 44 RBI’s, and swiped 24 bases in leading Walters State to the Junior College World Series. Hargis is a native of Powell, TN. Coach Handelsman is excited about the speed and pop to the line-up that Chuck Hargis will add to the 2005 Fayetteville SwampDogs, “Chuck will fit well into the way we like to play. He can be a catalyst for us at the top of the lineup. He can run, hit for some power and can really pick it in the infield”.

The Coastal Plain League is a collegiate summer baseball league, with rosters comprised of outstanding college players from across the country, seeking to sharpen their skills while showcasing their talents for pro scouts. The league uses wood bats giving hitters a head start on their professional careers, while also providing fans with a more traditional sounding game. So come out and show support to your local SwampDogs. For season ticket information call (910) 426-5900, or check us out on the web at www.fayettevilleswampdogs.com