UPDATE: Two standout players from Creston have received prestigious all-district honors, as announced late last week by the Iowa High School Baseball Coaches Association. Senior Parker Varner has been named a first-team pitcher, while sophomore Tom Mikkelsen earned a spot on the second team for the Class 3A Southwest District.
This recognition comes at a crucial moment for the Panthers, showcasing the exceptional talent coming out of Creston’s baseball program. Varner, with a remarkable 6-2 record and an impressive 2.18 earned run average (ERA), led the team with 61 innings pitched, racking up 72 strikeouts while allowing just 59 hits. Opponents managed a mere .248 batting average against him.
When not on the mound, Varner demonstrated his versatility by playing third base and shortstop, boasting a stellar .450 batting average with 25 runs batted in (RBIs). His all-around performance has been a driving force behind Creston’s successful season.
Mikkelsen, primarily a catcher, also made significant contributions in the outfield and as part of the starting pitching rotation. He finished the season with a commendable .363 batting average, including a team-high three home runs and 17 RBIs. Mikkelsen’s pitching record stood at 2-4 with a 2.07 ERA, striking out 27 batters in 23.2 innings while allowing only 18 hits.
The all-district teams also highlighted numerous talented players from the region. In the first team for Class 3A Southwest, other notable pitchers included Hayden Mohwinkle from Carlisle and Evan Mott from Carlisle, showcasing the high level of competition in Iowa high school baseball.
With the season now concluded, the focus shifts to what lies ahead for these young athletes. Both Varner and Mikkelsen are expected to play crucial roles for Creston in future seasons, building on their impressive achievements and contributing to the growth of the program.
The recognition of these players not only brings pride to the Creston community but also highlights the importance of youth sports in developing talent and teamwork. As the baseball landscape continues to evolve, keep an eye on these rising stars as they aim for even greater success in the years to come.
