Baseball | 2/16/2026 3:30:00 PM

February 16, 2026 - For the second time in three weeks, Colby Deaver has earned MIAA Pitcher of the Week recognition, being named the Co-Pitcher of the Week after his ten strikeout performance on Saturday against Sioux Falls.

The sophomore from Blue Springs, Mo. continued his hot start to the 2026 season, tossing 6.0 shutout innings against the Cougars which included ten strikeouts. Deaver struck out the side in two innings, and allowed just three hits and one walk. His strong start to the season has resulted in 18.0 shutout innings with 26 strikeouts through his first three outings.

His 26 strikeouts are the most by a Hornet pitcher through the first three outings since Jake Barton struck out 29 to begin the 2020 season. Deaver's current strikeout-to-walk ratio of 26:1 is tied for the best in Division II, while his 26 strikeouts are tied for the third-most in the nation.

Emporia State opens MIAA action this week as they travel to take on Arkansas-Fort Smith on February 20-22. First pitch in game one of the series against the Lions is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 20.