Jack Piatt
Daily Egyptian
P.J. Finigan, Eric Haberer and Ryan Welch made their presence known here at SIU and throughout the collegiate world, receiving All-American honors for outstanding play this past season.
The trio joined the best of the best among freshmen throughout the nation and showcased the talent of the SIU baseball team.
Finigan started every game for the Salukis as shortstop and also saw a little pitching time. He came to SIU from Lanpier High School in Springfield, where he set records for hitting and pitching and was named "Athlete and Baseball Player of the Year" by the Central State 8 Conference.
"Finigan is the best young infielder we have seen all year." SIU baseball assistant coach Ken Henderson said.
Welch, a pitcher from Brentwood High School in Brentwood, Tenn., was named to the second-team All-Missouri Valley Conference this past season. Welch appeared 13 times, striking out 39 batters in 68 innings pitched.
Welch thinks that the team will be very competitive next season and hopes to make it to the next level after college.
Haberer, a southpaw from Bloomington High School, started his college baseball career with a perfect 4-0 record. Haberer played 21 games, striking 24 batters out in a little more than 39 innings. Haberer was also the team leader in saves.
Haberer said being named to the All-American team is a big honor.
"I had a good fall season, and my confidence grew as the season went on," Haberer said. "I never strive for personal awards; I work hard for the team. I think all of us would trade these honors for a MVC championship ring."
Henderson attributes a lot of the team's success to a solid recruiting year.
"Finigan, Haberer and Welch all had a great past season," Henderson said. "All three are very deserving of this honor."
He added that it is remarkable to have three freshmen receive national honors.
"It is a sign of things to come," Henderson said.
Reporter Jack Piatt can be reached at jpiatt@dailyegyptian.com
Published on 11/17/05; 12:24:44 PM
