Murphy Drafted by Texas Rangers

June 8, 2007

LAWRENCE, Kan. –

University of Kansas outfielder Kyle Murphy has been drafted by the Texas Rangers with the 15^th pick of the 19th round (590 overall) in the 2007 Major League Baseball draft. Murphy hit .332 during his senior season at KU with 15 doubles, four triples and four home runs. <?xml:namespace prefix=”o” ns=”urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office”?>

After hitting ninth in the order during the first few weeks of the season, the senior center fielder moved to the leadoff spot an excelled. Once conference play started on March 16, Murphy’s season batting average never dipped below .300. He led the team with 71 hits, 50 runs scored and 16 stolen bases. He also had a team-high nine outfield assists.

One of six Jayhawks named All-Big 12 Honorable Mention, Murphy began his career at Indian Hills Community College (Centerville, Iowa). During his two seasons at IHCC, the Beloit, Wis., native earned All-America honorable mention, was named to the JUCO World Series All-Tournament team, hit 18 home runs and stole 32 bases.

Murphy joins Zach Ashwood, who was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 16^th round, as Kansas players taken so far in this year’s draft.