A switch-hitting utility player who should see time as a backup in the outfield and as designated hitter.

2006 (Freshman): Saw action in 15 games, including four starts . . . had one home run and drove in two runs . . . went one for two with a home run and two RBI against Longwood.

High School: Named All-State and All-Area at Opelika High School . . . named his team's Offensive MVP . . . led his team to a region championship by hitting over .500 with 12 doubles and three home runs . . . hit .426 and drove in 30 runs as a junior . . . also competed in wrestling and was an All- State selection in wrestling.

Personal: Born April 10, 1987 . . . son of Steve and Sandy Ballew . . . majoring in prelaw.