Kyle Crookes Head Baseball Coach | University of Central Missouri Athletics
Kyle Crookes Head Baseball Coach | University of Central Missouri Athletics
A University of Central Missouri Mules Baseball player has received recognition for his defensive skills. Senior infielder Jacob Steele was named to the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) NCAA Division II Central Region All-Defensive Team as a third baseman. This accolade follows his recent ABCA/Rawlings Division II Gold Glove honor.
Steele, who hails from St. Peter's, Missouri, has had an impressive season with Central Missouri. As an ABCA/Rawlings Second Team All-American and the 2025 MIAA Co-Player of the Year, he led his team with a .373 batting average over 61 games. His performance contributed significantly to UCM's achievements, including their 31st MIAA Regular Season Championship, 21st NCAA Division II Central Regional Title, and reaching the National Runners-Up position at the NCAA Division II College World Series in 2025.
In addition to his offensive stats, which include 94 hits and 64 RBIs among others, Steele excelled defensively at third base. He committed only two errors out of 182 chances, achieving a .989 fielding percentage. His defensive contributions included 72 putouts, 108 assists, and participation in turning ten double plays throughout the season.
The selection process for these teams is conducted by members of the American Baseball Coaches Association and managed by the ABCA NCAA Div. II All-America & Coach of the Year Committee.
The American Baseball Coaches Association was established in 1945 and serves as a key professional organization for amateur baseball coaches worldwide. With over 15,000 members across various divisions including NCAA Divisions I through III and more, it continues to support coaches globally.
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