Our #8 starting pitcher in the 2014 Valley League season is well known to two fan bases.
Not only did Austin Stephens pitch in Charles Town in 2014, but he also played for Rockbridge in 2013. And to add to the fun, Austin’s father, Mark, pitched for Bob Wease and the Harrisonburg Turks in 1990, just before he was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers.
At any rate, Austin had a super season for the Cannons, earning him the #8 spot. In 6 starts, Austin went 3-0, 1.77, with a .212 batting average against, 1.13 WHIP, 3.2 BB/9 and 4.6 K/9 in 40 2/3 innings pitched. His best start was against the Harrisonburg Turks on July 9th, when he pitched a complete game while allowing 5 hits, 1 unearned run, 2 walks, and struck out 4.
For the Rapids in 2013, Austin went 2-3, 3.93 in 10 games (8 starts), while allowing 51 hits, 24 walks, and striking out 35 in 50 1/3 innings pitched.
Austin needed the work, because he took the 2013 college season off after pitching at Grand Rapids in 2012. He was undefeated there, going 5-0, 3.71, with 49 hits, 25 walks, and 33 strikeouts in 53 1/3 innings pitched. Austin transferred to South Alabama, and will be eligible to pitch this spring.
Congratulations on your excellent summer, Austin!
All Things Valley League 
I’m so honored to be part of a list as exclusive as this. I appreciate all the nominations and hope to be back for my last summer eligible in the valley