(New Britain, Conn., June 15, 2020) –New Britain team officials have announced that outfielder Matt Chamberlain, and infielder Jake Mackenzie have been signed by Major League organizations. Chamberlain has been signed by the St. Louis Cardinals, and Mackenzie by the Boston Red Sox.
Bees General Manager Brad Smith saying “We are really proud of Matt, and Jake. Those two are the high caliber college players we want on the Bees Roster. We wish them the best as they begin their careers in professional baseball.”
Chamberlain was a senior at the University of New Haven who in 2020 started all eight games in centerfield, batting out of the leadoff spot. He led the team with six stolen bases, and posted a .259/.512/.519 slash line. He drew a team-leading 12 walks, and led the team with nine runs scored and added seven RBI before New Haven’s season was cut short due to COVID-19 outbreak. He was set to enter his first season in New Britain before being signed as an Undrafted Free Agent.
Mackenzie, a junior in 2020 at Fordham University, was named to the Bobby Bragan Collegiate Slugger Award Watch List, which is based on performance at the plate, academics and personal integrity. He started all 16 games for the Rams, batting .356 with 10 runs scored, six extra-base hits, and nine RBI. He swiped seven stolen bases, moving into fifth place on the Rams' career leaders list with 84, and had a team-best eight multi-hit games.
About the New Britain Bees
The New Britain Bees are members of the Futures Collegiate Baseball League and play their home games at New Britain Stadium. For information on tickets packages, group outings and sponsorships call 860-826-BEES (2337) or visit NBBees.com.
About the Futures Collegiate Baseball League (FCBL)
The FCBL is made up of seven teams from various parts of New England, each of which plays 28 home games and 28 away games. Each franchise is made up of elite collegiate athletes competing in a minor league style format. Each franchise provides high quality, affordable entertainment, in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. At least 50% of the players on each team must be from New England or attend college in New England. For further information, visit www.thefuturesleague.com.