(Photo: CHRIS TODD/FOR THE CLARION-LEDGER)
Nick Dawson was a mainstay in Southern Miss’ starting lineup his first three seasons in a Golden Eagle uniform primarily for his defense.
The Bartlett, Tennessee, native made a name for himself with a blue-collar approach and a steady presence at second base. His success as a defender made it easier for Southern Miss coaches to live with the offensive body of work he put together from 2013-15. Dawson was a career .236 hitter after 407 at-bats.
But head coach Scott Berry’s faith in Dawson’s ability to swing the bat never wavered.