Wisconsin Rapids, WI – The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters added a pair of infielders today by announcing the signings of Pat Kelly (Nebraska) and Jordan Dreiling (Kansas).
“I am extremely pleased we were able to add these two quality players to our roster,” said General Manager Liz Kern. “It’s very exciting to see how Pat Kelly has stepped up for Nebraska as a true freshman this spring.”
IF-Pat Kelly, 5’11”, 170 lbs (R/R) Freshman, Nebraska [pictured]
Pat Kelly joined the Huskers this year after establishing himself as one of the top prep players in the state of Minnesota. The infielder has not disappointed as a true freshman at Nebraska, as he currently leads the entire Husker lineup with a .419 batting average. Through 16 games, he also has clubbed three doubles and three home runs, while driving in 13 runs. His on-base percentage currently sits at .468.
Kelly attended Red Wing High School, where he helped lead his team to the 2011 Minnesota Conference Championship and its first winning season since 2007. As a senior, he posted a .436 batting average and five home runs on his way to being named one of seven finalists for the 2011 Minnesota Minute Men Mr. Baseball Award and an All-Metro selection by the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Perfect Game USA ranked Kelly the No. 1 prospect in the state and All-Region 1st Team in 2011. During his three seasons for the Wingers, Kelly batted .442 with 13 home runs and 74 RBIs.
Kelly will also bring summer baseball experience with him to Wisconsin Rapids, having previously spent two summers with the Ohio Warhawks—one of the top 18 and under programs in the country. He helped the team post a 40-4 record in 2010 and a 35-3 record in 2011, guiding the team on their way to their third and fourth consecutive national championships. Kelly is a native of Red Wing, Minnesota.
IF-Jordan Dreiling, 5’11”, 180 lbs (S/R) Redshirt Junior, Kansas
Jordan Dreiling has appeared in 15 games (11 starts) for Kansas this spring while posting a .268 batting average and .388 on-base percentage. Known for a good eye at the plate, the switch-hitter has drawn eight walks versus only three strikeouts. As a redshirt sophomore last year, Dreiling played in 40 games, while hitting .284 with 14 RBI, seven stolen bases, and a .425 on-base percentage. In addition to his defensive versatility, Dreiling will also bring an impressive summer baseball resume along with him to Wisconsin Rapids this summer.
The 2012 summer will mark Dreiling’s the fourth different summer league he has played in, in as many years. Last year, Dreiling played for the Hawaii Alliis of the Hawaiian Collegiate Baseball League where he hit .267 with two doubles, two triples and 19 runs scored. He also added 18 RBIs and was successful on 7-of-8 in stolen base attempts. Following his redshirt freshman season in 2010, Dreiling suited up for the Walla Walla Sweets of the West Coast League. He was a member of the Topeka Golden Giants of the MINK League following his senior season of high school.
Dreiling attended Free State High School in Kansas where he lettered three years in baseball and was a First Team All-State selection. He was also named Second Team All-Area by the Kansas City Star and First Team All-Sunflower League. As a sophomore, Dreiling helped lead his team to a state championship. He is a native of Lawrence, Kansas.
The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters are members of the 16-team summer collegiate Northwoods League. The Rafters will play a 70 game schedule with 35 home games in 2012. Opening Day at historic Witter Field is scheduled for Wednesday, May 30th at 7:05 pm against the La Crosse Loggers. Reserve your 2012 ticket packages today by calling 715-424-5400, or in person by stopping by the Rafters office at historic Witter Field. The offseason office hours are Monday through Friday from 9am-5pm. For more information, visit www.raftersbaseball.com.
