Riverside’s Stevens named first-team all-Ohio

It has been quite a spring for Riverside sophomore Caleb Stevens.

Stevens, who played football for Bellefontaine in the fall and then returned to Riverside during the winter, will compete in the Division III state track and field meet this weekend in Columbus.

Earlier this week, Stevens was recognized for his sparkling performance on the baseball diamond this season. An outfielder, he was selected to the Division IV all-Ohio first team by the Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Association.

This was his first year of playing high school baseball. Stevens began his high school career at Riverside and played football for the Pirates as a freshman. Later in his freshman year, he moved to Bellefontaine and ran track and field for the Chiefs last spring.

Back at Riverside this spring, he made a huge impact for the Pirates’ baseball program.

“Our coaches are extremely proud of Caleb,” said Riverside head coach Derrick Purtee. “Early on this spring he was adjusting to playing baseball again and showed so much potential. The coaches had to get on him a little bit about some of the details needed to be a great player. He bought in and had a tremendous season.”

Stevens hit .447 with 16 doubles, two triples, one home run and 19 RBI. He also stole 15 bases and scored 34 runs.

“Caleb is such a great all-around athlete,” said Purtee. “He did not play baseball as a freshman, but we knew he could contribute right away this year. He has great speed and is very coachable. He also is very aggressive at the plate. That allows him to use his speed to challenge defenses.”

Several other area players were recognized on the all-Ohio teams.

Bellefontaine’s Tyler Jones was an honorable mention pick in Division I. 

For the full story and more photos, 
pick up a copy of Saturday’s Bellefontaine Examiner. 
CLICK HERE to subscribe.

WEB EDITION STARTING AT $9.50 FOR 5 WEEKS!