We told you about Matt Whatley, ORU junior, being drafted by the Texas Rangers. Well, Bryce Howe and Blake Battenfield are two more local boys who are getting ready to bat for the big leagues. All three men were chosen in the MLB amateur draft.
Howe is a Claremore graduate who is currently a pitcher at ORU. He was chosen in the 18th round by the Miami Marlins. In 2016, he earned Summit league Second Team honors as a starting pitcher … Made 16 starts on the season for a 6-5 overall record … Led the team with 87 innings pitched and 84 strikeouts … Allowed 55 runs, but only 36 runs were earned … Walked only 40 batters and held opponents to a .275 average against … Went a season high seven innings two times with the first coming at North Dakota State on April 1 in a one-hit performance … Struck out nine batters three times this season with the last coming April 15 at Omaha.
Battenfield is a redshirt junior playing pitcher for Oklahoma State. He helped lead Verdigris to three straight Class 3A state titles. Battenfield was chosen in the 17th round by the Chicago White Sox.
Big round of applause for all of these Claremore area boys chasing their dreams!
