Knippschild Picked In Day Two Of MLB Draft

June 8, 2004

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Senior left-hander Ryan Knippschild was selected as part of today’s final portion of Major League Baseball’s First Year Player Draft. Knippschild was selected in the 35th round (1,037th overall pick) by the Cleveland Indians.

Knippschild, a native of Rancho Cordova, Calif., was KU’s top starter throughout the 2004 season and ended the year with an overall record of 6-8. The southpaw led the team in wins (7), innings pitched (111.1), strikeouts (79) and complete games (2).

“I am really excited that Ryan will get a chance to further his playing career,” head coach Ritch Price said. “He’s just been tremendous for us during the last two years. I couldn’t be happier for him.”

Kansas recruit Erik Morrison, a shortstop at Arroyo Grande High School in Calif., was taken in the 46th round by the New York Yankees. Morrison, who signed with the Jayhawks last fall, is currently playing summer ball along side fellow ‘Hawks signee Ryne Price for the Firestone Rangers in San Luis Obispo, Calif.