2013 Baseball Team Awards Announced

ERIE, Pa. – The Penn State Behrend baseball program announced their 2013 Team Awards after completing a successful season where the Lions won the AMCC Championship and advanced to the NCAA Tournament.

"These players earned these awards through hard work and performance," said head coach Paul Benim. "Through their collective efforts and support from teammates, the spring season culminated with the 2013 AMCC Championships."

The team's Most Valuable Player award went to Vinny Rice, while the Most Valuable Pitcher was awarded to Ryan Jacobs. Both seniors were instrumental this season for the Lions. Rice had a breakthrough year at first base. He hit .378 and smacked 45 hits to go with 26 RBIs. Jacobs, who threw his first perfect game this seaon, tallied an 8-2 record on the hill and posted a 1.64 ERA. He fanned 58 batters and broke program records for wins and innings pitched.

The Most Improved Player award went to Taylor Overby. The versatile sophomore played 31 games, primarily playing at second base. He drove in 10 runs on 19 hits, while smacking three doubles.

John Hlavinka was named the squad's Rookie of the Year. The newcomer stepped into a starting role and saw time in 41 games. He tied for second on the team in hits (45), runs scored (31), doubles (9), and triples (1).

Senior outfielder Ryan Kragnes earned the Golden Glove award. He was solid defensively for Behrend, closing gaps in the center field and making superb plays all season. Kragnes had 75 putouts and did not commit one error for a flawless fielding percentage. The Hustle and Spirit Award went to senior outfielder James Verona. He was a terrific role model for his teammates and a versatile player.

Jay Condit and Evan Bukowski were honored with the Herb Lauffer Leadership/Scholarship award for their off-the-field contributions to the team, school and community while leading the team to a 30-12 overall record.