Despite a first-round exit in the District 35 playoffs, four Big Rapids players earned all-district honors following a 26-7 finish on the season.
These four players included senior catcher Wil Strickler, senior second baseman Brett Root, senior pitcher Ben Knuth, and junior outfield Riley Vennix.
"There are a number of very strong players in our district, from Gladwin to Bay City John Glenn in particular,” Head coach J.T. Scarpelli said. “That Strickler, Vennix, Root, and Knuth are all able to represent Big Rapids as All-District players is a testament to their work ethic, athleticism, and leadership.”
Behind the plate, Strickler batted .362 on the season, obtained a slugging percentage of .438, and led the team with 27 RBI’s. He also allowed a career low .720 stealing percent to opposing base runners.
Root led the Cardinals with a .514 on base percentage and .400 batting average behind a hot second half of the season.
Leading Big Rapids on t
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On Monday, Big Rapids senior Ben Knuth signed his letter of intent to confirm his collegiate running
plans at Ferris State University next fall.
As a multi-year all-conference honoree, Knuth enjoyed a breakout senior season that included a 16:37 5K personal best and seven top-10 finishes.
“My junior season, I had dealt with injuries so my senior year was my last year to get my best time out there,” Knuth said. “I had some big goals going into the season and I was really happy with my last race.”
The multi-sport athlete also played basketball and baseball for the Cardinals, including winning a
conference regular season and tournament championship on the hardwood this past winter. When
asked about making his decision, Knuth said he’s very happy to stay close to home.
“(Ferris) was on the top of my list for sure. I was so happy to get an offer from them and have my family in this area. I’m ready to go and represent my hometo
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