By Marty Gordon
Blacksburg High School baseball standout Luke Goforth will continue his playing career at Carson-Newman University. Goforth announced his commitment earlier this week to the Jefferson City, Tenn., school where his brother also attended and played baseball.
“I chose to play at Carson-Newman University because my older brother went there and was very successful there,” the younger Goforth said. “He ended up getting drafted from CNU so I wanted to follow in his footsteps. I also chose CNU because the coaches there have created such a great atmosphere and tradition that I thought would fit me best.”
Goforth has mainly been a catcher throughout his high school career. “I would like to play catcher there, but I’ll play any position they need me to play for the better of the team,” he said.
Luke’s brother, Ethan Goforth, also a catcher, spent three years at the school and earlier this year was selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 21st round of the major league player draft. He played for the Appalachian League’s Bristol Pirates this summer.
Last year, Goforth batted .361 for the Bruins with an on-base percentage of .500 with 22 hits in 61 bats, 12 runs batted in, 25 runs scored and 11 stolen bases. He threw out eight runners attempting to steal.
Carson-Newman is a member of the NCAA Division II South Atlantic Conference and finished 31-18 this past spring. Five seniors return to this year’s squad.
