NORFOLK, VA-- Old Dominion University junior outfielder Ben Verlander (Maiden's VA.) has been named to the first team All-State squad as selected by the Virginia Sports Information Directors.
Earlier in June he was selected Third Team All-American by National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association, and was also named to the ABCA Coaches All East Region squad.
Verlander, who was selected in the 14th round (426 overall pick) of last week's Major League Baseball draft by the Detroit Tigers is a first team All-CAA selection, and was a semifinalist for the Gregg Olson Award which is awarded to college baseball's top player who elevates his game to an elite level throughout the season. Ben Verlander ranked eighth in the CAA in hitting at .367, third in homers with 11 and led ODU in runs scored with 46, along with four triples and 13 stolen bases.
Verlander also knocked in 37 runs and was the CAA Player of the Week three times this season as well as being named Louisville Slugger National Team of the Week after his three homerun performance against Northeastern on March 9. He hit .380 with eight homers and 24 RBI in 27 CAA games, and was named the team MVP.
Ben is currently playing for the Connecticut Tigers in the short season league.
Virginia’s Mike Papi was named Player of the Year, Kyle Crockett was selected Pitcher of the Year and Joe McCarthy was the VaSID Rookie of the Year. William and Mary head coach Jamie Pinzino was selected Coach of the Year.