SARNIA – Plans for the 2022 season are already in motion for Lambton Men’s Baseball.
With the 2021 season all but a distant memory for the Lambton Men’s Baseball program, plans are now in motion for the upcoming 2022 season. The program made big strides in 2021 and will be looking to continue their upward trajectory when the new season rolls along.
On Thursday, the first piece of the puzzle has been put in place. The Lions have landed a commitment from Bowmanville High School product Nolan Leighton (Bowmanville, Ont.), adding depth to their infield rotation as a result.
Leighton is the first name in the 2022 recruiting class for the Lions.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to represent Lambton on the field and get to know my fellow teammates and coaches,” said Leighton. “Fans can expect to see a player who never stops and plays his heart out every game.”
A second baseman by nature, Leighton brings a wealth of versatility and experience to the Lambton roster from his time with the Clarington Renegades.
“I’m best known for my defense and speed, but I’m also not afraid to sacrifice my body for the team,” added Leighton. “I bring my all to every game, I’m there for my team, and I’m always working to be my personal best.”
In 2021, Leighton led the team in walks (24) and on-base percentage, while also stealing 22 bases. Back in 2020, Leighton led his team with a .463 batting average while finishing second with 31 stolen bases.
“Nolan is a middle of the order bat who can spray the ball to all field with authority and he provides great defense, both at second base and in the outfield, with great speed,” said Clayton Richer, 17U Head Coach/Director of Baseball Operations and Recruiting with Clarington Renegades Baseball. “He is a hard-nosed player who plays the game the right way and rarely leaves the diamond with a clean uniform.”
“Nolan is a great addition for Lambton College.”
Leighton will be studying Sports & Recreation Management while at Lambton College, which adds another layer of excitement for Leighton given the opportunities that the program presents.
“I’m also looking forward to the Sports & Recreation Management program, which will provide me the opportunity to work with the Sarnia Sting,” added Leighton.
The Lions are coming off a 2021 season that saw them notch the first win in program history, getting the proverbial monkey off their backs in the process. Over the course of the season, the Lions continued to make positive strides and they will be looking to continue that positive trajectory in 2022 with Leighton now on board.
Welcome to The Den, Nolan!