Pictured (L to R): Hinds coach Sam Temple, Josh Clarke and Rick Clarke, father.

Clinton High School's Josh Clarke
signs with Hinds baseball 

02/04/08 - Josh Clarke of Clinton High School, a right-handed pitcher/infielder, has signed a baseball scholarship with Hinds Community College for the 2008-2009 season. Clarke is the son of former Hinds head baseball coach Rick Clarke, who amassed more than 500 victories and numerous championships at the Raymond school.

Clarke is a standout on the mound and in the middle infield for the Arrows. He was dominant at times on the mound as a junior in 2007 and looks to be the ace of the Clinton pitching staff as a senior. Clarke also provides a solid glove for the Arrow defense when he is not pitching and looks to hit in the middle of the Clinton lineup as well.

"It is such an honor to be able to coach Josh next season," said Hinds coach Sam Temple. "Coach Clarke gave me the opportunity to play college baseball here at Hinds, and for that I will always be grateful."

"Josh is a competitor and will give us some much needed help on the mound next season. His ability to throw numerous pitches for strikes, along with being a solid position player, will be beneficial to us in the future."

The Eagles open their season on Tuesday, Feb.12, when they take on Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. First pitch is set for 1 p.m. in Raymond.