Radakovich finds right fit in Lee
By: hale-mcgranahan June 22, 2015

Dan Radakovich’s ideal candidate to take over the Clemson baseball program had to meet a handful of specifications.

[autotag]Monte Lee[/autotag], who Radakovich hired late last week from College of Charleston, appears to fit the bill.

“We wanted someone who would infuse energy and optimism into the program and build upon the great foundation of Clemson baseball,” Radakovich said, “Someone who could fit into our community, understands what our program is all about and welcomes the expectations that we have for the program.”

First-baseman Andrew Cox officially met Lee 20 minutes before Monday morning’s introductory press conference began.

“He’s optimistic. He’s looking to have fun and that’s what this game is about,” Cox said. “One thing that I liked that he said was, you don’t work the game of baseball. You play the game of baseball. I couldn’t agree more with that statement.

“I’m super excited to play for such an energetic and positive guy, and ready to go to work.”

Rated by Diamond Prospects as the No. 11 player in South Carolina during his senior year at Belton-Honea Path, Cox’s first communication with Lee wasn’t until last week.

“I texted him Thursday night when he got the job, told him how happy I was for him and how much he deserved this opportunity, and that we were all ready to go to work for him and couldn’t wait to get started,” Cox said.

Like Cox, left-handed pitcher Pat Krall, had no prior relationship with Lee, but there was some familiarity, because of the reputation he built at College of Charleston.

“I think he’s going to work us when we need to be worked,” Krall said. “It’s all about hard-work…I think he really loves what he does and we really love what we do, too, so I think it’s going to be a really good match.”

The success Lee had during his stops in Charleston, Spartanburg and Columbia played a significant part in Radakovich’s decision.

“I know Monte fills every one of the criteria we’re looking for in a head coach and I’m excited to welcome him and his family to our Clemson family,” Radakovich said.