JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. – Carson-Newman baseball coach Tom Griffin announced the signing of a catcher, a right-handed pitcher and an outfielder during the early signing period, Tuesday. 

Griffin brings in catcher Brett Hagenow (Knoxville, Tenn.), hurler Tim Johnson (Terre, Haute, Ind.) and outfielder Taylor Long (Dandridge, Tenn.).

Hagenow, a 6-0, 185-pound backstop from Farragut High School, will join the Eagles after he graduates in 2013.  Hagenow helped lead the Admirals to state championships in 2010 and 2011.  He was second team all-district in 2012 and picked up a team golden glove award. 

"Starting catcher for one of the best teams in the state," Griffin said. "He has played with some outstanding players.  His coach is a former catcher, which helps in the development of his skills.  He attended our catching camp, and we like his defensive skill level and his future as a catcher in our program."

Hagenow hit .280 with 20 RBI in 2012.  His parents are Matthew and Karen Hagenow; his great-grandfather Herbert wrestled at Purdue.  Hagenow plans to major in business with an emphasis in management.

Johnson makes his way to C-N by way of Vincennes University.  The 5-10, 165-pound righty was an all-conference performer all four years of his high school career and the pitcher of the year for three of those. 

"His head coach at Vincennes, Chris Barney and I played college baseball together at Tennessee Wesleyan and is a close friend of mine," Griffin said. "I know Timothy is coming from an outstanding college program and knows how to win.  Timothy's makeup is outstanding, he's a hard-nosed kid who has a boxer's mentality - a very athletic pitcher who we expect to fill an important role on our staff next year."

Johnson finished 2012 with a 6-2 record. In 57 innings pitched, he struck out 65 while only giving up 39 hits, leading to a 2.90 ERA.  Johnson is the son of Tom and Charlene Johnson. 

Long rounds out C-N's early signing class.  The Jefferson County Patriot and Dandridge, Tenn.,-native batted .308 for 2012. 

"Taylor has been around involved in our program in many ways, with summer camps and fall leagues," Griffin said. "He is very familiar with our program and what our expectations are."

Long also had 15 stolen bases and scored 22 runs last year for JCHS. 

The Eagles begin play in 2013 on Feb. 1 with a three-game slate against Augusta State. 

-CN-