Cole Kitchens Named ABCA/Rawlings All-Midwest Region Second Team
Evansville, IN – University of Southern Indiana’s (USI) Cole Kitchens, a junior first baseman and designated hitter, has been recognized as a second-team American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA)/Rawlings All-Midwest Region selection. This achievement marks Kitchens as the first USI baseball player to receive this honor since the program transitioned to Division I.
Kitchens’ Outstanding 2024 Season
During the 2024 season, Kitchens showcased remarkable performance, leading both the Screaming Eagles and the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) in several key offensive categories. His .371 batting average, 82 hits, and 60 runs batted in (RBIs) topped the conference. The 60 RBIs represent the highest total for a USI player since 2018.
Did You Know? …
the NCAA transfer portal has seen a significant increase in baseball players seeking new opportunities, with over 3,000 entering the portal in 2023 alone, highlighting the evolving landscape of college baseball [NCAA].
Key Stats and Highlights
Kitchens also led the team with 18 doubles and 12 home runs, while tying for third in runs scored with 39. His performance included tying a USI single-game record with three home runs against Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.He recorded a season-high four hits in three separate games and drove in four runs against Western Kentucky University.
Pro Tip: …
Analyzing a player’s on-base plus slugging (OPS) provides a complete view of their offensive capabilities, combining their ability to get on base with their power hitting prowess.
Team Performance and Conference Standing
The USI Screaming Eagles concluded the season with an overall record of 27-29 and a 15-12 mark in the OVC, securing their third consecutive appearance in the conference tournament.The 27 wins matched a program record for victories in Division I, while the 15 OVC wins represented a three-year high for the Eagles.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Batting Average | .371 |
| Hits | 82 |
| RBIs | 60 |
| Doubles | 18 |
| Home Runs | 12 |
The junior infielder also recorded the team’s second-longest hitting streak of the season at 17 games, along with 25 multi-hit games and 16 multi-RBI contests.
The Evolution of College baseball Awards
The ABCA/Rawlings All-Region teams are selected by members of the American Baseball Coaches Association, a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of baseball coaches at all levels. These awards recognize the top players in each region, providing them with valuable exposure and recognition for their achievements. The criteria for selection typically include a player’s overall performance, statistical contributions, and impact on their team’s success.
The landscape of college baseball has changed significantly over the past few decades. Increased media coverage, advanced training techniques, and greater emphasis on player advancement have all contributed to the rising level of competition. Consequently, individual awards like the ABCA/Rawlings All-Region selections have become increasingly competitive, reflecting the depth of talent across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions About College Baseball Awards
- what is the significance of the ABCA/rawlings All-Region award?
- The ABCA/Rawlings All-Region award recognizes the top baseball players in each region, providing them with valuable exposure and recognition for their achievements.
- How are players selected for the All-Region teams?
- Players are selected by members of the American Baseball Coaches Association based on their overall performance, statistical contributions, and impact on their team’s success.
- What is the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC)?
- The Ohio valley Conference is a collegiate athletic conference comprising member institutions primarily located in the Midwestern and Southeastern United States.
- How has Division I baseball evolved over the years?
- Division I baseball has seen increased media coverage, advanced training techniques, and greater emphasis on player development, leading to a rising level of competition.
- What are some key statistics used to evaluate baseball players?
- Key statistics include batting average, hits, RBIs, home runs, and on-base plus slugging (OPS), which provide a comprehensive view of a player’s offensive capabilities.
What are your thoughts on Cole Kitchens’ performance this season? How do you think the USI Screaming Eagles will perform next year? Share your predictions in the comments below!
