University of Mary Washington catcher James Keller has signed a professional contract with the Shaumburg Boomers of the independent Frontier League.

"James is the second UMW player in as many years to reach the next level", said UMW head coach Wayne Riser. "I speak for the entire UMW baseball family wishing James much luck and we are very proud of him and his efforts. He has earned this opportunity through his work ethic and continual improvement as a player."

Keller turned in a record-breaking campaign for the Eagles in 2016, batting .375 in 39 games, with a school-record 11 home runs, 50 RBI, and 43 runs scored. He hit 15 doubles and one triple, with an on-base percentage of .470 and a slugging percentage of .704.

Schaumburg competes in the highly competitive Frontier League. Ironically, Keller's first pro game will be against fellow UMW alumnus Jono Haught, who has signed with Evansville in the same league, on May 13.