CLINTON – Northwest sophomore right-hander Jackson "Chomp" Smith has found a new home closer to home after signing with Mississippi College late Tuesday afternoon.

Smith, a native of Raymond, made six appearances during a shortened sophomore season, striking out 13 batters in 11.1 innings and six appearances. He delivered a season-best four strikeouts in a 15-4 victory against Olive-Harvey College on Feb. 29.

Primarily used as a closer during his two seasons as a Ranger, Smith tied Colton Peel with a team-best four saves last season while dishing 24 strikeouts against seven walks. The Central Hinds Academy product made a total of 17 relief appearances with a 1-1 record and a 5.74 ERA in 2019, but lowered his career ERA to a 4.06 before the cancellation of the remaining 2020 slate.

Smith also garnered accolades off the field, earning nods to the President's and Vice President's lists as well as Academic All-MACJC recognition following the conclusion of the 2019 season.

"We were so fortunate to have him in our program," Northwest baseball coach Mark Carson said. "He is a fierce competitor on the mound and a strike thrower. Our coaching staff is proud of him and we can't wait to see him do a great job at Mississippi College."

Smith becomes the fourth member of the Northwest baseball team to sign or commit to the next level, joining future Mississippi State duo Parker Stinnett and Brayland Skinner and Oklahoma signee Dalton Fowler. 

Prior to his two seasons in Senatobia, Smith compiled a 36-8 overall record on the mound throughout his varsity career at Central Hinds, earning several all-district accolades, including district MVP and MAIS All-Star recognition.

Mississippi College competes at the NCAA Division II level in the Gulf South Conference. The Choctaws posted an 11-9 overall record and a 6-3 conference mark before suspending their season due to the COVID-19 outbreak.