The reigning Big 12 player of the year, K-State’s Ross Kivett, passed up a chance to go pro for another run at Omaha this spring. The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association recognized Kivett as its first team preseason all-American at second base. Kivett led the Cats to its first conference title in 80 years and first ever Super Regional berth.
The second baseman batted .360 with 22 extra-base hits and 26 stolen bases last season as well as led the Big 12 in hits (94) and runs (57). For his efforts, Kivett was named to the ABCA/Rawlings All-America Second Team.
He was drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the 10th round, but turned down his hometown team to come back to school.
The Wildcats start their 2014 campaign on Friday, February 14 at Cal Poly, beginning an eight-game road trip across California.