Claxton’s Michael Peel, seated in center, is joined by family and coaches as he signs his letter of intent to play baseball for the University of Georgia next season.
   The 6-foot-6 right-hander has been the ace of the Tigers’ pitching staff for the last three seasons and — after leading his team again this spring — will make the trip up to Athens to start his college career.
   “It’s very exciting,” Peel said. “This is something that I’ve worked really hard for. I’m looking forward to having another great season here and then testing myself at the next level.”
   Peel has been one of the most dominant forces in Region 3-A since his freshman season. He has a no-hitter to his name and — armed with a 90-plus mph fastball and devastating slider — is one of the favorites to lead the region in strikeouts this season.
   When the time comes, he’ll be ready to throw his stuff against some of the best college talent in the country.
   “I’m hoping to be a starter at Georgia,” Peel said. “It’ll be a dogfight. They have a lot of talent, but I’m looking to add to that and compete hard.”