Shortstop is long on skills
Garett Thomas signs to play baseball
Former Red Hawk is third Red Oak recruit
WAXAHACHIE, Texas -- A solid recruiting class by the baseball team at Southwestern Assemblies of God University just got better.
An aggressive second-year head coach Jonathan Shockley signed Timothy Garett Thomas as a student-athlete on Monday. The former standout at nearby Red Oak High School becomes the 14th in a group that will likely add several more over the course of the next week.
Garett Thomas, a Dallas native, primarily played shortstop for the Red Hawks, though he also served as a pitcher and utility player.
The 6-foot, 175-pounder won First Team All-District during his senior season in 2011. The high-flying Hawks went 25-15 that year to win their first Bi-District championship since 2005. He garnered Second Team honors for his efforts in his junior campaign.
He swung a .414 stick as a senior, ripping 46 hits in 111 at bats. His on-base percentage was a rock-solid .465.
With 17 extra-base hits, including three that left the park, Thomas’ effectiveness in the clutch was more than power. His batting average with runners in scoring position was a robust .636.
Known for his prowess at the plate, Thomas’ strong right arm is his main defensive asset.
“We are very glad to have Garett joining our ranks,” said Coach Shockley. “His skill set gives him a great chance to compete for a starting position. I look for him to compliment the school’s mission as a student and leader.”
Garett’s parents are Tim and Suzanne. His siblings are Ashton, Kelsey and Dillon. He lists playing the saxophone as one of his hobbies.
The sports enthusiast enjoys fantasy sports and would love to enter a career in radio broadcasting, especially as a sports talk show host.
"I am really ecstatic to coming to SAGU,” Thomas said yesterday. “God has given me a fresh start and new opportunity. Knowing I can be a part of this ball club and start a tradition is very appealing. I also can really become more passionate and stronger in my walk with Christ."
Former Red Hawks head coach Heath Autrey was full of praise for Thomas.
"I am excited to hear that Garrett will be playing for SAGU. While playing for me he put in the work that was needed on a daily basis to have success,” he pointed out.
“Garrett exemplified leadership through hard work and discipline. He understands the process over results mentality that is rare in our society today. I am very proud of him."
Thomas throws right-handed and bats from the left side.
The Lions were an improved 14-28 in the spring. They collectively hit .284, which ranked fourth in the 10-team Red River Athletic Conference, and their 5.27 earned run average was sixth best. SAGU pitchers amassed a 7.38 ERA the year before.
Eight players graduated this spring, inciting a determined Shockley to upgrade the roster in a bid to move the Lions up in the standings.
Thomas joins former teammates Hayden Killebrew and Jarrod Pisors, a pair of right-handed hurlers from Red Oak.
The team begins their fall camp on September 24. The increase in talented recruits will surely lead to fierce competition for starting positions.
Contact: Mark “Link” Warde, SAGU Sports Information Director, at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
or at 469-658-2847.
