Baseball America, a leader in baseball analysis and statistics, recently came out with their prospect lists for 2010 summer collegiate leagues. The Northwoods League (NWL) had 20 prospects listed which was a jump from 2009 when 10 prospects were listed. The increase to 20 prospects was due to the depth and talent of the NWL.
League Most Valuable Player Steve Nyisztor (Rutgers) of the St. Cloud River Bats is still getting rewarded for a great 2010 season. The hard-working Nyisztor topped the list thanks to a great 1st season with St. Cloud.
Nyisztor, a Toms River, New Jersey native, exploded onto the NWL scene as he hit .306 with 56 RBI for the playoff bound St. Cloud River Bats. The athletic shortstop primarily hit in the No. 3 spot of the River Bats line-up all season and was one of the most productive hitters in the NWL. The righty ranked near the top of the Northwoods in at-bats (3rd), triples (3rd), homeruns (9th), RBI (2nd), stolen bases (13th) and slugging percentage (13th).
The Rutgers 2nd baseman also made a switch defensively as he moved over to shortstop which allowed him to display his superior athleticism. According to Baseball America, he projects as a 3rd baseman due to his solid-average to plus arm, defensive instincts and offensive power. The 6’4” line-drive hitter has great speed and base running instincts to go along with his offensive and defensive skills making him a ‘five tool’ player according to Baseball America.
Kyle Gaedele (Valparaiso), Sam Selman (Vanderbilt), Cody Asche (Nebraska), and Harold Riggins (NC State) rounded out the top five due to their great 2010 seasons. Other notable NWL players on the list were All-Stars Scott Schebler (6th – Dodgers), Brad Schreiber (11th – Purdue), Jordan Smith (15th – St. Cloud State) and Isaac Ballou (17th – Marshall). League Pitcher of the Year Jason Wheeler (Loyola Marymount), and teammate of Nyisztor, ranked 13th on the Baseball America list.
Check out www.baseballamerica.com or their upcoming print issue as the Northwoods Top-20 prospects will be featured.
The Northwoods League has more teams, plays more games, and draws more fans than any Summer Collegiate Baseball League in North America.
