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While basketball has dominated the recent sports highlights from George Rogers Clark High School, baseball season is just around the corner. 

With the team already including stars such as Brady Davis, who has committed to the University of Louisville, one more with a future athletic career at the NCAA level has been added to the list. 

Mason McLemore, a senior, signed to play baseball next season at Union College in Barbourville in the GRC library on Friday, March 1.

“I’m excited to announce that I will be furthering my academic and athletic career at Union College (KY).” wrote McLemore in a social media post on X on February 6. “I would like to thank God, my family, my friends along with [Union College} Coach [Joseph] Hensley and the entire coaching staff for this amazing opportunity!” 

McLemore was joined by his family, GRC Athletic Director Terry Yeast, teammates and coaches, and many more as his accomplishments and signing were recognized. 

The hopes to sign to play college baseball started to become a reality in the fall. 

“This past November, Coach Hensley reached out to me and…[said] that I’d be a good fit there.” said McLemore. “I went on my visit [in] early January and as soon as I got on the campus it felt like home.” 

Last season, when the Cards finished with a 22-12 record, McLemore gradually began seeing more playing time as the season continued. 

Arguably his best performance of the season came on April 12, 2023. 

While playing against Powell County, a respectable foe who made it to the 14th Region Tournament, McLemore found himself on base twice and successfully stole three bases on as many attempts. 

In a tight game, the gains assisted in providing crucial run support during a 4-1 victory. 

Typically, a catcher – the position McLemore plays – is not well-known for being fleet of foot; thus making the performance all the more exceptional. 

Head coach Eddie Brooks, entering his first year at the helm of the Cardinals after being hired in August, expressed his thoughts. 

“Seeing his growth as a person and as a student, and more so as a baseball player…goes to show you the attitude [and] the ability this young man has and the determination that he has to be successful.” Brooks said. “I’m extremely proud to be a small part of it and happy to keep seeing his journey.” 

As a catcher, McLemore will not only help guide both starting and relief pitchers, but will be in charge of coordinating with many other position players. 

Though the task might seem demanding, it’s one that McLemore is excited for. 

“You..have to control the whole field.” He said. 

Along with hopes to go far in the season, McLemore – who has been playing organized baseball for several years – states enjoying the game for several other reasons too. 

“[I] just enjoy playing with friends, having fun, [and] the atmosphere of it.” he said. “It gets your mind off a lot of things.”