Two Mules named to NCBWA Preseason All-Region Team

Eight games into their 2005 season, two Central Missouri State University Mules baseball players were just announced as preseason All-Region picks by the National College Baseball Writers Association. Senior outfielder Will Bradley and sophomore relief pitcher Mike Phelps have been recognized by NCBWA Preseason All-Region team.

A first-team All-MIAA and All-Region pick in 2004, Bradley batted .399 with a team and MIAA record 13 triples. He also had 10 doubles, five home runs, 52 runs batted in, and 22 stolen bases. Tabbed as the Mules’ starting second baseman to start the year, he currently is lining up in centerfield for the 6-2 Mules. At present he is batting .385 with a double, a home run, six RBI, and two stolen bases.

Phelps was MIAA Freshman of the Year last spring after going 9-0 with one save and a 2.40 earned run average. He struck out 75 in 60 innings pitched over 19 appearances. Slated for duty in Central Missouri’s starting rotation, Phelps is currently inactive after suffering a head injury in the Mules season opener vs. Texas A&M-Kingsville.

The Mules finished the 2004 campaign with a record of 57-8 and won their fifth consecutive regional title. Consequently, they have been tabbed preseason No. 1 in the Central Regional rankings by the NCBWA.