Bauers Named Best First Baseman in Midwest League

FORT WAYNE, Ind. - TinCaps first baseman Jake Bauers has been named a 2014 Midwest League Postseason All-Star, the league announced Monday afternoon.

The Postseason All-Star team includes nine position players and four pitchers. The team was selected by the managers of the 16 teams in the league.

"I'd like to thank the fans and people of Fort Wayne for making this city feel like home for me this season," said Bauers, a native of Huntington Beach, California. "Our team appreciates the amazing fan support through the ups and downs of the year."

Entering Fort Wayne's game on Aug. 25, Bauers is hitting .291 - tied for the seventh best batting average in the league. In 104 games, the 18-year-old has eight home runs and 60 runs batted in.

"It's an impressive honor for anyone," TinCaps manager Michael Collins said. "But for the youngest player in the league to be given this recognition is quite impressive and says a lot about Jake's performance this season. He's been a great player to have with us this season."

Bauers wasn't on Fort Wayne's roster to begin the year. After starting 2014 in extended spring training, the 2013 seventh-rounder made his TinCaps debut on April 26. For much of June and July, he had the best batting average in the league. In addition to his prowess at the plate, Bauers has also impressed many with his defensive performance as a first baseman.

"It's good to see that the hard work Jake has put in all season long has been rewarded," TinCaps hitting coach Morgan Burkhart said.