Fredericktown continued its student-athlete signing parade Friday, Feb. 10, following Ashley Cockrell’s track signing a week earlier, to continue her career at Ashland University. Kaid Carpenter and Brady Lester both signed to continue their baseball careers at nearby Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU).
In front of many family members, friends, coaches and school officials, who helped the pair celebrate their accomplishments, Carpenter and Lester became official future Cougars.
Carpenter said he chose Mount Vernon Nazarene University for multiple reasons.
“I love the overall culture and values,” Carpenter said. “I love the campus and facilities. MVNU has a great business program. I’m excited to join a great baseball program and play for two great coaches (head coach) Keith Veale and (assistant coach) Corey Kubbs. I also love the fact that my large family will be able to attend games and that I’m close enough to spend time with my siblings.”
While at MVNU, Carpenter will work toward a bachelor's degree in business and then a master's degree.
Looking to build on last season and end his Freddies career with a big 2023, Carpenter was the KMAC Player of the Year in 2022, and was selected to First Team All-KMAC and First Team All-Central District in baseball. He hit .471 at the plate and was 6-1 on the mound with a KMAC-lowest 1.15 ERA and a league-leading 62 strikeouts in 36.1 innings. For his senior season at Fredericktown, Carpenter has set multiple goals. Carpenter said he hopes to help his team win their sixth district championship and make a run at the state championship. Individually, he would like to hit over .500 from the plate and not give up an earned run on the mound.
“I would like to thank the entire Freddie Nation including the coaches, administration, staff, family, players and fans for the support,” Carpenter said at the ceremony. “I would also like to thank MVNU coaches Veale and Kubbs for the incredible opportunity.”
Lester also decided to continue his baseball career at Mount Vernon Nazarene University. While at MVNU, Lester will major in business administration and work toward a master's degree. Lester made the decision to attend MVNU for several reasons.
“When I met the coaches and the players, I was comfortable and felt like this was a great fit for me,” Lester said. “The Naz also has a great business program where I can finish my master’s degree.”
Last season, Lester hit a KMAC-leading .508 with a No. 1-ranked 1.127 slugging pct. and a KMAC-leading eight home runs on his way to First Team KMAC, First Team Central District and First Team All-Ohio selections. This year, Lester hopes to help Fredericktown win the KMAC again and make a run at a state championship.
