MCLA's Procopio to join Steeplecats roster this summer

North Adams, MA- The North Adams SteepleCats of the 12-team New England Collegiate Baseball League have signed MCLA's Paul Procopio.  A Pittsfield native, Procopio is the first county athlete to play for the Steeplecats since 2003. 

Procopio is currently a junior third baseman at MCLA. While batting in the middle of the line-up, Procopio was second on the team with a .326 batting average, hits (31), and runs batted in (17). Last year he led the Trailblazers with a .365 batting average and also topped the charts with 12 doubles. He was second on the team with hits (38) and runs batted in (24). He ended his season with a 2009 All-MASCAC selection.

“We are excited for Paul to join the SteepleCats this summer. I know he is prepared for the challenge of the NECBL and expect him work hard and make an impact,” said McGrath.  “Coach Puleri is a tremendous coach who understands what it takes to compete at level, which says a lot about his belief in his third baseman.”  “Paul’s versatility in the infield will be very valuable this summer as he can play anywhere in the infield. I know he’ll be ready for the challenge and should feel right at home playing at Joe Wolfe Field where he played while in high school.” 

After four years of high school, Procopio began his career as a shortstop. But three games into his freshman year at MCLA he was sidelined with a shoulder injury. “I was very frustrated”, he said.  It wasn’t until he returned at the end of his freshman year that his view of the field changed. He was moved from shortstop to third base where he has held the job for the last two years.

For MCLA coach Jeff Puleri having a player on an NECBL roster isn’t anything new to him. Two of his former players Gary Hicks and Shawn Richards have represented the Trailblazers with their hard work and determination. “It’s quite an honor, not everyone can play at that level,” stated Puleri about his players work ethic and maintaining roster spots on competitive summer teams.

For the first time this summer Procopio will not be on a team with friends and old teammates, he will experience a new level of baseball with new surroundings and new teammates. His teammates will be travelling from Rutgers University, University of Rhode Island, Wright State, University of Miami, and Lamar University to name a few.  “I can’t even explain how excited and grateful I am to have this opportunity,” Procopio said.