Baseball: Kerman signs national letter of intent to continue career at UCLA

Long Beach City College sophomore pitcher Michael Kerman has signed a national letter of intent to continue his academic and athletic career at UCLA next year. Kerman officially committed to UCLA on Wednesday, the opening day of the NCAA early signing period.

Kerman, a graduate of Beverly Hills High School, had an impressive freshman season for the Vikings in 2010 and was named first-team All-South Coast Conference.

Kerman, who was converted to pitcher just a month before last season began, appeared in a team-high 16 games and was nearly untouchable with a 1.82 earned run average (ERA). In 24.2 innings of work, Kerman allowed just seven runs (five earned) and 19 hits. He struck out 22 batters and walked just four.

"Michael had a good year for us last season and he definitely deserves this," said LBCC head coach Casey Crook. "Obviously UCLA saw something they liked in him. I know he will have a good spring for us this season and will do great there as well."

Not only did Kerman stand out for LBCC on the mound last season, but was also successful in the classroom as well. Kerman was nominated for the California Community College Baseball Coaches Association (CCCBCA) Academic All-State award with a 3.2 grade point average last year.

Crook, now in his 18th season, and the Vikings open up the 2011 season on February 5 with a non-conference game at Barstow College.