By Beth Renkoski

06/09/05

Cubs select VU's Crouch in MLB Draft

Costa Mesa, Calif - Vanguard University senior Nikolaus Crouch was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 2005 Major League Baseball Draft. Crouch, a 6’4" infielder from Vista, California, completed his two-year Vanguard career this spring and was one of nearly 50 NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) baseball players to be picked in the annual MLB first-year player draft.

Crouch was chosen in the 26th round and was the 790th overall pick from over 1500 college or high school baseball players named in the 50-round draft. He was the 27th of 50 selections by the Chicago Cubs in the two-day process. One of six Golden State Athletic Conference players selected in the draft, Crouch is the first Vanguard player to be drafted since Chad Chop was picked in the sixth round of the 2002 MLB draft.

"I’m very excited," Crouch stated by phone after meeting with a Cubs’ representative. "This has been my dream since I started playing T-ball. I always wanted to have the opportunity to get drafted and pursue a professional baseball career. Number one, I’d like to thank Jesus (Christ) and my parents (Susan and Bruce). I’d also like to thank all the people at Vanguard for giving me the opportunity to play baseball and get my degree."

Crouch, who suffered a broken finger while being hit with a pitch in late February, had a productive senior season for Vanguard University. He was at or near the top in several offensive categories, including batting average (.301), on base percentage (.412), total runs (23), homeruns (10), and runs batted in (29). Playing in 38 games this season, Crouch competed at the infield corners defensively, and as the designated hitter for the Lions.

"Nik has worked hard to get an opportunity to play professionally," commented VU Head Coach Scott Mallernee. "Though having a finger broken in the middle of the season, he battled through to have a solid offensive year. I wish Nik all the best and look forward to his success in a Cubs’ uniform."

In two seasons at Vanguard, Crouch totaled 79 hits, 12 homeruns, and 51 RBIs in 85 games. Drafted as a third baseman, Crouch met with Cubs’ scout Dennis Henderson this afternoon to find out more details of his assignment. At this point, Nik will report to Mesa, Arizona to compete for the Mesa Cubs in Rookie ball. In time, he is expected to move on to the Boise Hawks, an "A" level affiliation for the Cubs, located in Boise, Idaho.

For more information on the MLB draft, follow the links to the official MLB website or the Chicago Cubs website.