Central’s Rushing a baseball all-America pick

Central College

PELLA—Robbie Rushing (senior, West Des Moines, Valley HS) Friday became the first Central College baseball player in 44 years to receive all-America recognition.

Rushing was named a second-team honoree on the American Baseball Coaches Association/Rawlings All-America squad as a designated hitter. He was among just two Iowa Conference players recognized. Senior pitcher Jon Ringblom of Buena Vista was also a second-team selection.

The only previous Central player to receive all-America honors was John Edwards, who was cited in 1970. Edwards served as Central’s head coach from 1978-2002 and is now associate athletics director for operations.

Rushing, a two-time all-conference, was Central’s top hitter with a .410 average. He hit a school season record 23 doubles with two triples and six home runs and drove in 46 runs. Rushing compiled a .681 slugging percentage and drew 16 walks, helping him post a team-high .463 on-base percentage. He also stole three bases.

Coach Adam Stevens’ squad posted a 28-16 record, for the second-highest win total in school history. The Dutch were 17-11 in conference play, finishing third, and placed second in the league tournament. Rushing was part of a senior class that racked up 101 victories over the past four years.