The November issue of “Baseball America” included some glowing reports on former Central Missouri State University Mules currently playing in the minor leagues. Some excerpts:

Chicago Cubs

Best Late-Round Pick: RHP Michael Phelps (11) and LHP Jayson Ruhlman (23) are potential steals. A sophomore-eligible who sustained a fractured skull when his catcher hit him in the head with a throw in Central Missouri State’s season opener, Phelps could have been an early pick had he re-entered in the 2006 draft.

Minnesota Twins

Best Breaking Ball: … RHP Danny Powers (the 2005 NCAA Division II player of the year).

Philadelphia Phillies

Intriguing Background: Scouts who saw (LHP Josh) Outman at St. Louis-Forest Park CC said he had the strangest mechanics they ever had seen, the product of biomechanical and kinetic research by his father, who published a book on the subject. Outman used to extend his left arm straight up, bend it to nearly touch his right shoulder and then throw the ball while taking a casual step toward the plate. He had success with his delivery, which is supposed to reduce stress on the arm, but after transferring to Central Missouri State in 2005, the staff there remade his arm action to enhance his chances of getting drafted (note: Outman went 10-2 with a 3.03 ERA and 106 strikeouts in 2005).

St. Louis Cardinals

Closest to the Majors: RHP Nick Webber’s sinker and his role as a reliever make him the frontrunner.