George Washington University product Derek Brown signed with the Will County CrackerJacks on Nov. 29, 2011 and will serve as a key utility player for the 2012 season. Brown has the ability to pitch and play both the infield and outfield.
The versatile Brown appeared in 54 games for the Colonels in 2012, made 49 starts and also pitched in two ballgames. At the plate, Brown took 194 at bats and picked up 50 hits, including five doubles, one triple and two home runs. He plated 17 runs and scored 23 times as well. In the field, Brown led the team in putouts with 415 and also had 28 assists. He finished with a 0.980 fielding percentage. On the mound, Brown had two appearances in relief. He threw two innings, and allowed just one hit. Brown did not allow a run in his two innings of work for George Washington.
A native of Woodstock, Ill., Brown attended Woodstock High School. He was an All-Area selection in baseball, basketball and football and was a member of the honor roll.
Brown intends to be a History major at George Washington University. He has a younger brother, Brandon, and is the son of Shawn Brown and Kim Andes.
