Three Emporia State baseball standouts have been celebrated by the Division II Conference Commissioners Association, earning spots on the 2026 Central Region First Team and collecting individual accolades that highlight a remarkable season for the Hornets.
Deaver’s Dominance on the Mound
Deaver, a sophomore right‑hander, was crowned Central Region Pitcher of the Year after posting a 1.50 ERA and a 0.82 WHIP while ranking among the nation’s top five in six key pitching metrics. His 11 wins and 102 strikeouts placed him ninth in program history for a single season, and he capped the year with a 16‑strikeout complete game against Missouri Southern, matching the season’s highest single‑game total in Division II.
Steele’s Offensive Surge
At first base, Steele led the Central Region with a .388 batting average and a .536 on‑base percentage, while also setting career highs with 16 home runs, 67 RBIs, 46 walks, 60 runs scored and 11 stolen bases. His 31 homers over the past two seasons rank fifth in ESU history, underscoring his impact as both a power threat and a disciplined hitter.
Myers’ All‑Around Excellence
Myers, a junior second baseman, posted a .408 average and a .548 OBP, adding 21 doubles and 39 RBIs while maintaining a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage and contributing to 36 double plays. His 195 career hits place him sixth all‑time at Emporia State, and his 161 runs scored sit fifth, highlighting a trajectory that could soon rewrite the program’s record books.
Award Process and Governing Bodies
The D2CCA’s All‑America and All‑Region teams are sponsored by the Division II Conference Commissioners Association and voted on by members of the NCAA Division II Sports Information Directors Association, with additional recognition from the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association, ensuring that selections reflect both statistical performance and peer acknowledgment.
A Legacy in the Making
The trio’s honors build on a storied program, where recent seasons have produced multiple All‑Region selections and record‑breaking career totals. As the Hornets look ahead, the blend of elite pitching, potent hitting and steadfast defense positions the team to contend for national relevance in the coming years.