DOTHAN, Ala. (WDHN) — Houston Academy’s JT Pitchford signed to advance his baseball career with the Enterprise State Boll Weevils.

The pitcher says ESCC felt like home and staying close to his family played a huge role in his decision.

Pitchford had a 6-1 pitching record last season, the best overall for the Raiders.

He pitched 41.67 innings, had a 2.87 ERA, 36 strikeouts and only 14 walks.

He batted .371, had five doubles and 23 RBI’s.

Pitchford believes his time in a successful Houston Academy has prepared him for collegiate ball.

“Coach TK and Coach AJ have prepared me better than anybody else in the state,” Pitchford said. “We’ve worked months and months. It feels great to come out there and compete every day with a bunch of guys around you who are very solid, the coaching staff is great, and the facilities are great. You couldn’t ask for more.”

Pitchford’s plans for his senior season with the Raiders is to be the best leader he can be and help his team to another area title and run at state.