NEW LONDON, N.H. – February 23, 2012 – Former Colby-Sawyer baseball standout Chris Hartery '10 has signed with the Las Cruces Vaqueros of the Pecos League based in New Mexico.

“The people that I met at Colby-Sawyer brought out the best in me,” said Hartery. “They motivated me, made me work hard, and taught me discipline, and I'd like to thank them, as well as my parents, for the continued love, support and encouragement as I enter professional baseball.”

Prior to being signed by the Vaqueros, Hartery had been competing in the California Winter League as a member of the Snowbirds. The league, which is located in Palms Springs, Calif., is an instructional league that took place from January 18th to February 17th.

The Snowbirds finished 7-10 and lost in the semifinals to the Chill, 2-1. Chris finished the short season with a .302 batting average after starting in 14 of the team's 15 games. He had a team best four doubles, to go along with a triple and seven runs batted in. Chris had a .474 on base percentage, which was third on the team.

“I am looking forward to the challenge and I am excited for the opportunity to play baseball at the next level,” said Hartery. “It is a great feeling knowing that I am getting a chance to continue my baseball career.”

Chris hopes to help the Vaqueros win some games this spring and get promoted to a high level Independent League squad.

Hartery finished his Colby-Sawyer career as one of the best baseball players to ever don a Chargers uniform. In his final season at Colby-Sawyer, Hartery led the team and the entire conference with six triples. The six triples ranked him 13th in the nation. In addition to his single season accomplishments, Chris has made a lasting impact in the Colby-Sawyer record books. He ranks first all-time in triples (17), tied for second in doubles (29) and fourth in runs batted in (115). Chris also ranks fifth in runs (112) and hits (145), while ranking sixth in homeruns (13) and in walks (56).

“Chris had a huge impact on the baseball team here at Colby-Sawyer,” said baseball Head Coach Jim Broughton. “His work ethic on the field and in the weight room during the offseason was second to none. I am happy to see him get this opportunity and I wish him continued success.”

“My coach, Jim Broughton, preached constant improvement while I was at Colby-Sawyer.” “The athletic training department spent countless hours with me and did a great job keeping me on the field. The president of the college, Tom Galligan, encouraged and applauded my (as well as other students') efforts and triumphs.”

The Colby-Sawyer baseball team begins the 2012 campaign with its annual spring break trip to Florida for a slew of games starting on March 3 against Cornell College.