KU Assistant Baseball Coach Takes MLB Scouting Position

Sept. 28, 2005

LAWRENCE, Kan. –

University of Kansas assistant baseball coach Steve Abney has accepted the position as Mid-Plains Scouting Coordinator for the Cleveland Indians, an organization he worked for prior to his three-year tenure at KU.

“I want to personally thank Coach Abney for his contributions to our program over the past three years,” stated head coach Ritch Price. “His expertise on the pitching side of the ball has been instrumental in our success. His commitment to excellence has helped us build a solid foundation for the future.”

Abney came to Kansas when Price was named head coach in 2003. During their first year at KU, the Jayhawks swept LSU at Alex Box Stadium in Baton Rogue, La., when the Tigers were ranked sixth in the nation. KU’s winning record in 2003 was its first in six seasons.

Over the past three years, KU has posted an unprecedented three-straight 30-plus win seasons, including 36 victories last year, the third most in school history. KU reached its first Big 12 Tournament in 2003 and again in 2005.

“Everybody associated with our program is thrilled for Steve and his family,” commented Price. “His new position with the Indians is the opportunity of a lifetime. We wish him continued success in this great game.”

During his time as KU’s pitching coach, Ryan Knippschild (Cleveland Indians), Mike Zagurski (Philadelphia Phillies) and Kenny Falconer (Seattle Mariners) were selected in the MLB draft. Jacob Jean signed a contract with the Chicago White Sox organization this summer.

During his five seasons as the Midwest Scouting Coordinator for the Cleveland Indians, Abney signed major leaguers Cliff Lee, Zach Sorenson and Jason Stanford.

A 1981 graduate of Fresno State, Abney spent three seasons as a player in the San Deigo Padres organization.