Gilligan commits to Babson
Phillips Andover rising senior Michael Gilligan, a North Andover resident, has committed to play college baseball at New England Div. 3 powerhouse, Babson College.
The 6-foot-6 hard-throwing right-hander continues the long success at “Andover,” sending talent to top flight college baseball programs.
His high school coach at PA, Kevin Graber, was effusive in his praise.
“Michael has worked incredibly hard to make himself into a college pitcher,” said Graber. “He’s transformed his body, smoothed out his delivery, and added a true out pitch in his slider.
“Perhaps the best thing about Michael baseball-wise is there’s more to come,” added Graber. “He’s now just scratching the surface of his ability and potential, throwing in the mid-90’s when all is said and done.”
Tua’s kid brother played in Lowell
Taulia Tagovailoa, younger brother of Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, was a late addition to the local Arena League’s Mass. Pirates roster in their finale last Friday night.
While it wasn’t a great performance for the quarterback out of Alabama and Maryland in the 45-30 loss to the Bay Area Panthers, he showed some moments of greatness.
Taulia finished completing 8 of 17 passes for 55 yards, one TD and three interceptions. He also led the Pirates with 66 yards rushing, and two touchdowns, including a 19-yard score.
Bobo fighting for roster spot again
Jake Bobo, who grew up on the Brooks School campus — his mom was college counselor — is again fighting for a roster spot with the Seattle Seahawks.
The wide receiver, in his third year after a great career at Duke and post-grad year at UCLA, has been a fan favorite his first two seasons.
While his numbers haven’t lit up the stat sheets — 32 receptions over two seasons — he has made a few memorable receptions and is a top-blocking wideout.
“I’ve been here three years, for three camps, and it’s the same exact thing,” Bobo told the Seattle Times.
“My rookie year, was, fighting for my life trying to stay alive? Yes,” he added. “But we’ve got a lot of talent in the receivers room. Guys who can play special teams. Guys who want to get the ball in their hands that can make plays.”
Keane moves to relieving
Another name to watch in the N.Y. Yankees system is former North Andover High star Sebastian Keane.
Keane, drafted in the 18th round in 2022, has been moved to relieving with Hudson Valley, the Yankees High-A team, in 2025.
He’s been more than steady, going 5-0 with a 3.60 ERA. He was a teammate, also a best friend, with current Yankees phenom, Cam Schlittler, at Northeastern University.
O’Reilly signing in Methuen
Former Boston Bruins great Terry O’Reilly, whose No. 24 has been retired, will be in Methuen on Sunday, Aug. 3, at the monthly sports card show at VFW Hall.
O’Reilly will be signing from 10 a.m. until noon at the 26 River Street location in Methuen.
The autographs cost $20 with $5 inscriptions. Photo ops cost $5.
There will be 40 dealer tables of sports memorabilia from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Admission to the show is $2, free for those under 9.
For more info go to www.cardshows.net or call Vic at 508-265-4440.