Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Saluki Baseball places six on All-MVC teams
05/24/2016 | 12:00:00 | Baseball
MVC Release
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. - Southern Illinois baseball had six players earn All-Missouri Valley Conference honors, the Valley announced on Tuesday. Logan Blackfan and Michael Baird were both first-team All MVC; Chad Whitmer and Ryan Netemeyer earned second-team All-MVC; while Connor Kopach and Greg Lambert were honorable mention All-MVC. Blackfan was also selected to the All-Defensive team.
Logan Blackfan was one of the top power hitters in the conference, hitting 22 doubles, five home runs, and 48 RBIs. His 22 doubles this season ranks tied for third all-time in SIU single season history. Blackfan finished the regular season with a .288 batting average and 59 hits. Blackfan was also recognized for his defensive prowess by being named to the All-Defensive team. Blackfan has started every game for SIU this season.
Michael Baird earned first-team All-MVC honors after a phenomenal season on the mound. Baird led the league in wins (9), ERA (1.71), and innings pitched (95.0), while ranking second in opposing batting average (.209). Baird earned MVC Pitcher of the Week honors earlier this season after throwing a complete-game shutout against Illinois on 3/20/16. The sophomore RHP is SIU's first starting pitcher to earn first-team All-MVC accolades since 2011.
Chad Whitmer earned his first All-Conference honor after his first full season as a starter. Whitmer finished the regular season with a 6-4 record and an ERA of 2.79. He led the Salukis with 61 strikeouts. His 2.79 ERA ranks fifth in the MVC, while pitching the second-most innings in the conference.
Ryan Netemeyer had a breakout year in his first full season as the Saluki closer. The sophomore RHP had 11 saves during the regular season to rank second in the MVC and tied for second in SIU single-season history. Netemeyer appeared in 23 games, pitching 30.1 innings and only allowing three earned runs. His 0.89 ERA was the best of any Saluki pitcher.
Connor Kopach earned his first career All-MVC honors after missing most of last season with an injury. Kopach ranked second on SIU's roster in batting average (.291), hits (67), home runs (3), and RBIs (35). Kopach is one of four players to start every game this season.
Greg Lambert was an honorable mention selection after finishing the regular season as Southern's top hitter. The sophomore outfielder led SIU with a .311 batting average and 68 hits. Lambert has started every game this season for the Salukis.
The Salukis open the MVC Championship on Wednesday at 9 a.m., against No. 5 Evansville. Whitmer will be on the mound for the Salukis.
