THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, June 2, 1996 TAG: 9606020205
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: C8 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY RICH RADFORD, STAFF WRITER
LENGTH: 41 lines
Antone Brooks had been a starting pitcher throughout his career, but when the Atlanta Braves drafted him out of Norfolk State University last season it was with the intent of making him a relief pitcher.
Smart move.
Brooks, in his first full season of professional baseball, has become the closer for the Class A Macon (Ga.) Braves, and has learned to cherish the role.
``It's a situation I like to be in,'' said Brooks, who played one season at Norfolk State after transferring from Francis Marion University. ``I love to come in with the game on the line and people expecting me to sit everybody down. I like being that stopper.''
When Brooks began the season, he was more of a middle reliever, which helped him build his 4-1 record. But when Macon's season-opening closer, Adam Butler, was promoted, Brooks assumed the responsibility.
Brooks has made the most appearances this season for Macon, seeing action in 18 games through Wednesday. Brooks is sporting a 1.50 earned run average, has four saves and has struck out 29 in 30 innings while walking 19. Opponents are batting .176 against the lefthander.
``It's all about staying ahead of hitters,'' said Brooks, who is from West Florence, S.C. ``I go out there and give them my best stuff. Since I don't have to go through the batting order more than once, I go right at them.''
Brooks just hopes his move up the Braves' organizational ladder is as rapid as the man he replaced.
Butler, who graduated from William and Mary last spring, has been promoted twice already this season, moving to Class A Durham, then to Double-A Greenville.
``But players never know what's in store for them,'' Brooks said. ``We just take it one step at a time.'' ILLUSTRATION: Photo
Antone Brooks has a 1.50 ERA, has 4 saves and has struck out 29 in
30 innings while walking 19. by CNB