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Florida Atlantic University senior relief pitcher Hugh Adams has been named to the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association's 2012 Stopper of the Year watch list. Adams led the Sun Belt Conference with 10 saves last season, and earned first team all-conference and All-South Central Region honors.

The Bethesda, Maryland native posted a 3.44 earned run average and appeared in a team-high 28 games in 2011. The right hander struck out 29 batters in 36.2 innings and allowed just seven walks. Adams held opposing hitters to a .231 batting average.

"Because of his experience and skill level, Hugh is being looked upon to play a significant role on this year's team," said John McCormack, FAU's head baseball coach. "Our relief staff played a significant role in our success last year. It is great knowing we have a quality pitcher to bring into the game in closing-role situations."

Adams pitched for the champion Bethesda Big Train of the Cal Ripken Collegiate League in 2010. He went 1-0 with 19 strikeouts and did not allow an earned run in seven appearances. Adams began the 2011 summer with the Big Train, who finished the season ranked No. 1 by Perfect Game.

Adams has played a significant role in helping the Owls remain one of the top teams in the Sun Belt Conference. The team posted 32 wins last spring after winning the league's regular-season championship and advancing to the championship round of the NCAA Division I Gainesville Regional.

FAU begins the 2012 season against University of Alabama of the Southeastern Conference on Friday, February 17. The team's home opener will follow a week later, on Friday, February 24 at 6:30 p.m. against Manhattan College. It will begin a four-game weekend set.

Source: Sun Belt Media Relations