Pilots outfielder inks contract with Houston Astros
May 15, 2007
Minden, LA---Five years ago, Minden High School 2nd-Team All-District selection Chris Frye made the decision to accept the opportunity to walk on as an outfielder at Louisiana State University in Shreveport under Head Coach Rocke Musgraves. Monday morning, Frye was presented with a minor league contract by Houston Astros Area Scout, James Farrar, which he signed in the presence of his family members, friends, and former coaches.
Frye began his playing career at LSUS in 2003. As a freshman, he started seven games and posted a .250 batting average in 48 at-bats. Coach Musgraves knew he would be a threat for the Pilots in the years to come after a solid freshman campaign which was highlighted by a 2-for-3 in pinch-hitting performance at the 2003 NAIA College World Series.
“Chris has that intangible that you can’t teach, “want to”. He plays the game with a fierce intensity that has been a joy to coach. When you combine his determination with his speed and power, you have got to predict he has a shot to do very well at the next level,” commented Musgraves.
In 2006, Frye was confronted with one of his toughest challenges while at LSUS, and he faced it head on, while making it one of his greatest accomplishments. Frye was selected to red shirt his senior season, postponing his senior year as a Pilot to 2007. During his red shirt season, under the guidance of Dr. Kyle Pierce and graduate assistant Josh Redden, Frye became a member of the USA Olympic Weight Training Center at LSUS. His dedication to the training program has made Frye a potential five tool player on the baseball field, and is a testament to his character.
“My training routine under the guidance of Dr. Pierce and Josh Redden allowed me to play the game at a higher level than I ever had. I believe I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to play the game of baseball, and to have been part of such a quality program as LSUS which is why I dedicated that year to trying to become the absolute best player I could be,” commented Frye.
As the lone remaining position player from the 2003 NAIA World Series roster, his experience and athletic ability led the Pilots to a 40-15 overall record in 2007, marking the universities highest ever winning percentage of .727, and included the Pilots 2nd Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Tournament Championship in as many years.
His offensive presence led to 1st-Team All-GCAC and 1st-Team Region XIII Selections after posting .325 batting average. After 197 at bats , Frye led the Pilots in runs (46), doubles (16), triples (9), homeruns (7), RBI (48), and stolen bases (30-for-32). Frye’s nine triples in 2007 set a new LSUS Single Season Record, and he is now the LSUS Career Record holder in the triple department with 17.
As the 2007 season progressed, Frye’s ability sparked the interest of area scout Farrar who has been part of the Astros organization since 1990. Farrar’s first stint with the organization dates back to the early 1960’s during the time of the Colt 45’s.
“I am very proud of the progression Chris has shown and I believe he will be a valuable asset to the Astros organization. He has all the tools he needs along with a true love of the game which he needs in order to be successful. He will have to make the adjustments of playing with a wood bat and the every day grind of a minor league schedule, but I expect he will do very well,” commented Farrar.
The next step for the Minden native will commence Thursday when he will travel to Kissimmee, FL where he will take part in extended spring training with the Tri-City Valley Cats whose season begins June 19th in Troy, NY.
“This all just feels so surreal. I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to continue doing what I love, which is playing the game of baseball. I have been very fortunate to have had the guidance and love of my family, friends and coaches throughout my life which has allowed me to continue following my dream,” concluded Frye.
