All-Stars Return to Mustangs

The Martinsville Mustangs announced today that first baseman Derrick Hopkins and third baseman John Faircloth will return for the 2012 season.

Hopkins, a redshirt junior infielder at Southern University isn't new to the area. Raised in Woolwine, VA Derrick is practically a Martinsville native. The impressive local athlete provides power from the plate standing at 6'3", 230 pounds. Last season Hopkins batted .286 with 11 doubles, batting in 20 RBI's and was nominated to attend the Coastal Plain League All-Star Game.

Faircloth, also a Coastal Plain League All-Star, returns to give the Mustangs an attack from the left or right side of the plate. The switch hitter from Charleston Southern University plays infield and stands at 6'1", 180 pounds. Last season John played in 52 games for the Mustangs, leading the team with 187 at bats, batting .246 with 27 RBI's.

"We are lucky to have these two guys back," said Mustangs Head Coach Matt Duffy. "Not only were they key assets to our offensive lineup, they are both outstanding gentlemen off the field. Derrick is from Patrick County High School and John is from Wake Forest Roleville (High School), so I think our fans are going to enjoy having these two back in Mustang uniforms."

The Martinsville Mustangs open their season on May 29th, 2012 against the Thomasville Hi-Toms. Season tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now. Call (276) 403-5250 for more information.

The Martinsville Mustangs are a member of the Coastal Plain League, celebrating its 16th season in 2012 with 14 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. The CPL gives college players a chance to refine their skills with the use of wooden bats. Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both players and hosts.

Furthermore, the CPL has had more than 930 alums drafted and 48 alums make their major league debut thus far. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league website at http://www.coastalplain.com, and be sure to friend us on facebook (at http://www.facebook.com/coastalplainleague) and follow us via twitter (at cpleague).