WICHITA, Kan. (MacBulldogs.com) — Peyton Starr was selected to the second-team All-KCAC, while Jace Essig picked up a third-team All-KCAC selection, the league announced Thursday (May 2).
Starr, a native of Lake Jackson, Texas, finished the season with a .350 batting average, which ranks him second for the Bulldogs. He also led the Bulldogs in a few categories, including home runs (15) and RBIs (42). Starr added seven doubles, and a slugging percentage of .682.
“Peyton has had an incredible year for us and has been a key piece to our offense,” head coach Chris Dawson said. “He has a chance to be one of the best power hitters in our programs history and it’s good to see him get rewarded for the year he has put together. I’m excited to see what the future holds for Starr in a Bulldog uniform!”
In his first season with the program, Essig secured a third-team selection, following an outstanding season at the plate and on the base paths. Essig hit .308 with a .431 OBP and a .541 slugging percentage. He also drove in 28 runs, and was fifth on the team with six home runs.
“Jace is the heart and soul of our team!” Dawson said. He has played an amazing centerfield for us all season and has provided a mix of speed and power in our lineup. He was the key piece in us breaking the team stolen base record and it’s only right for him to be recognized for the season he has had.”
Additionally, the speedy Essig broke the single-season school record with 27 stolen bases, a mark that puts him tied for second in the KCAC.
“I’m excited to have both of these guys back next season! They both will play a massive role in the future of Bulldog Baseball, not only on the field, but off of it as well. They both are quality young men that I’m excited to have in our program and a part of our Bulldog family.”
The Bulldogs are in action this weekend at the KCAC Tournament in Great Bend, Kan. MC knocked off fourth-seeded Ottawa 5-1 Thursday, and will take on the KCAC Regular Season champion Kansas Wesleyan today at 6:45 p.m.
