HOUSTON -- Free-agent right-hander Chris Sampson and former San Jacinto College standout and Channelview High School product Daniel Cox will host a tryout on Thursday at Dawson High School in Pearland for their new 14U premier major level team.
The tryout begins at 11:00 a.m.
Sampson, who played for the Houston Astros (2006-10) and Florida Marlins organization (2011), will serve as the co-head coach alongside Cox -- his longtime friend and current hitting and fielding instructor at the LoneStar Baseball Academy in Baytown.
Although the staff has extended a few invitations, Sampson and Cox encourage elite-caliber ballplayers throughout the Houston area and state of Texas to participate in the open tryout.
Five or six team spots are still available.
"We have the makings of a solid team," Sampson said. "We have a guy who plays shortstop for the 14U Team USA that will play for us. Plus, we have extended invites to ballplayers who tried out for the U.S. national team. We are still looking to fill about five or six spots. We're willing to take a good look at everyone and see if a young ballplayer may be a fit for our team."
Sampson and Cox seek young ballplayers that fit the profile of being champions on the field and quality individuals off the field.
Those who make the team will not only receive personal instructions from Sampson and Cox, but have the chance to get their name out to collegiate recruiters and professional scouts.
Sampson offers a strong background as a big leaguer, while Cox previously coached the 12U USSSA National Champion squad in 2009.
"We're targeting the ballplayers who are eager to learn and that are committed to playing the game," Sampson said. "Our mission is to develop their skills on the field and make them better young men off the field. We will be looking to get their names out there and make this a quality experience for the guys."
The season runs from February to August, with practices to take place approximately four times per week in the Houston area.
For additional information, contact 713-503-1229.
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