In a year of many firsts for Lee University athletics, add the name of Jimmy Stanfield to the list. Stanfield has officially signed a major league free-agent baseball contract with the Milwaukee Brewers of the National League.

Several former Flames have played or are playing with independent professional teams, but Stanfield is the first to place his name on the dotted line with a major league club.

"I had just about given up," said the former Flames' catcher as he packed his bags and prepared for his Wednesday afternoon flight to join the Arizona Brewers of the Arizona Summer League (ASL). "I actually missed the first call from the scout on Tuesday night. I'm glad he called back and I was able to get this opportunity."

The Arizona Brewers are the Rookie League affiliate of the Brewers. Stanfield was signed by local scout Rick Hunter ofChattanoogaand Area Scout Joe Mason fromMillbrook,Ala.

Stanfield enjoyed two outstanding years with the Flames. He batted .363 this past season with 14 home runs and 19 doubles. He tied Lee's single-season RBI record by driving in 61 runs. A solid defensive catcher, Stanfield was named to the Southern States Athletic Conference first team. He was also an All-Region XIII catcher and second team NAIA All-American.

Stanfield was also vital in helping the Flames win two regular-season conference titles, one region tournament title and being a key factor in Lee's first trip to the NAIA World Series. Over two years, the Flames posted an impressive 96-35 record.

“We are extremely excited that Jimmy has gotten this opportunity," said Lee assistant baseball coach Mark Brew. "It has been a dream of his that has turned into a reality. He excelled behind the plate for us and helped lead us to our most successful season inLeeUniversityhistory (55-16). Jimmy posting great numbers offensively and handling a very talented pitching staff. We wish him the best of luck and hope he gets an opportunity to move up through the Brewers organization.”

Stanfield said he had not played baseball since the Flames played their final game in the NAIA College World Series inLewiston,Idahoon May 28. "I will get a physical on Thursday and get to take some batting practice and work with the pitchers in the bullpen on Friday," he pointed out. "That should help me get ready to play again."