Norton's Ryan Signs Contract With Brockton Rox

Former Norton High standout and current Wheaton College player Sean Ryan will be playing for the Brockton Rox in the Futures Collegiate Baseball League this summer. The Rox were part of the professional independent Can-Am League, but suspended operations this year and will instead feature college players.

A junior outfielder, Ryan and East Bridgewater's Greg Baggett, a senior catcher at Bentley University, were the first two players signed to the Brockton Rox roster.

 Ryan has been tearing the cover off the ball this spring for the Div. III Wheaton College Lyons, hitting at a .392 clip through the first 23 games of the 2012 season. As of April 8, Ryan led the team with 40 hits and 12 stolen bases, while tallying seven doubles, 14 RBI, and 20 runs scored.

The Lyons got off to a 20-3 start thanks in part to Ryan’s stellar play at the plate and in the field.

In 2011, he batted .367 in 15 starts before suffering season-ending injury.

Ryan put together a monstrous freshman campaign, earning 2010 New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) Rookie of the Year honors, while also being named Second Team NEWMAC All-Conference.

The Norton native led the team in batting average (.396), slugging percentage (.583), and runs scored (49), while recording four homers, 36 RBI, and 18 stolen bases. Ryan started 34 of 38 games and was instrumental in Wheaton’s run to the 2010 NCAA New England Regional Tournament semifinal.

A 2009 graduate of Norton High School, Ryan was a two-sport star during his time as a Lancer. He was named the Boston Globe/Will McDonough Male Athlete of the Year as a senior, while earning Boston Globe Division 3 Player of the Year honors in football. Ryan was also named the Tri-Valley League’s Most Valuable Player in baseball, as well as the league’s Offensive Player of the Year in football.

As a senior, Ryan hit .500 with four homers and 22 RBI on the diamond, while totaling 36 touchdowns on the gridiron, which ranked second in the state.

Former Brockton Rox outfielder Jud Thigpen will be the team's head coach.

Rox will open up the season against Martha's Vineyard June 8 at Campanelli Stadium in a 7:05 p.m. start.