Jack Dallas signs as free agent with Phillies

Former West Orange-Stark and Lamar University athlete Jack Dallas of Orange signed a free agent contract last week with the Philadelphia Phillies as a pitcher. He ended his career at Lamar this year by setting a school record for the most saves.

His younger brother, Chad, also a pitcher, was drafted last year by the Toronto Blue Jays and is currently playing in the team's minor league farm system. The brothers are the sons of Tony and Nancy Dallas of Orange.

Jack went to Lamar as a two-sport player. While at West Orange-Stark, he was quarterback on the football team and led the Mustangs to two state championships. He also played baseball and was on the Mustang team that went to the state tournament.

He played football his freshman year at Lamar but decided to concentrate on baseball. This spring, he ended the season with 14 saves in 41.2 innings and had a 1.94 ERA.

His brother, Chad, went to he University of Tennessee and last year helped the Volunteers reach the College World Series. He was drafted by the Blue Jays at the end of the season.

Jack was not drafted this year, but his agent helped him sign to a team.