Rose State College sophomore shortstop Phoenix Meza knocked it out of the park this season by earning Region 2 Player of the Year/Most Valuable Player honors and securing a spot on the Region 2 All-Region First Team.
Meza, who graduated from Rose State College last Friday with a Liberal Studies degree, dominated offensively throughout the season and established himself as one of the top players in Region 2. He leads the region in batting average, slugging percentage, and on-base percentage, and ranks among the top five in several additional categories.
Among Region 2 leaders, Meza ranks:
- 1st in Batting Average
- 1st in Slugging Percentage
- 1st in On-Base Percentage
- 2nd in Home Runs
- 2nd in Stolen Bases
- 2nd in Hits
- 3rd in Triples
- 4th in Walks
“Phoenix made an incredible impact on our baseball program both on and off the field,” RSC Executive Director of Athletics and Wellness Coty Cooper said. “He demonstrated exceptional leadership, work ethic, and performance throughout the season, and he earned every one of these honors.”
Meza plans to continue his education and baseball career at a four-year university and is currently exploring opportunities to compete at the next level.
“Phoenix was here only a year, but made a lasting impact on our baseball program,” said Head Coach Ryon Butts. “He was the first Player of the Year for me here at Rose since I have taken over as head coach, and according to the two previous coaches, he is the second MVP since the 90s. Meza was a great student in the classroom this year and a good leader on the field. We will miss his presence on our team, but I am proud of who he has worked to become and look forward to seeing what he does with his life.”
The Raiders open postseason play on Wednesday, May 13, at 2 PM at FireLake Ballfields in Shawnee as they continue their pursuit of a regional championship.
Rose State College congratulates Phoenix Meza on his remarkable accomplishments and wishes him continued success in the next chapter of his academic and athletic career.
