Adam County Christian School’s Jacob McDaniel is continuing his hope to move up to college sports by expanding his range at this year’s State Games of Mississippi.

McDaniel was chosen to the Region 7 baseball team for his second year, ready to play as an infielder and pitcher at Meridian Community College.

“Last year, I wanted to be infield, but I made it as pitcher only because there was an older group,” McDaniel said. “Now that I made (both), I feel like I’m up there and get to show the college scouts what I have. They saw me last year, so it gives me another chance to excel and show them how I field.”

While the rising senior said he doesn’t mind pitching, shortstop is where he loves to play.

“Shortstop is kind of the leader of the whole field. It’s where I’ve always played,” he said. “It’s what I feel most comfortable doing.”

McDaniel said he wanted to try out for this year’s team to remain among strong opponents. He said of the team’s 18 players, only four are returning from last year.

“The competition is up there which makes it a lot more fun,” McDaniel said. “This is the best from each school. It’s a good place to meet people who know and talk baseball.”

Last year, McDaniel helped guide Region 7 to a third place finish in the tournament, including pitching a two-hitter game going into the bronze metal matchup. He said while he hopes his team can finish higher this year, he just wants to have a good time.

“Going through tryouts, I wasn’t as worried,” McDaniel said. “I’m older, more experienced and know what’s going on. I’ve already been through it so the butterflies aren’t there anymore, but it does feel like I’ve accomplished something.”

Each team is guaranteed three games, and the tournament runs from June 12 to 16.