Three Otters Selected as 2014 Frontier League All-Stars
July 7, 2014 - Frontier League (FL)
Evansville Otters News Release
(EVANSVILLE, INDIANA) - The Evansville Otters (26-17) are proud to announce that first baseman Nik Balog, second baseman Josh Allen and third baseman Shayne Houck have all been named 2014 Frontier League East Division All-Star Team. Houck was also named a starter for the East Division who will play the West Division All-Stars at GCS Ballpark in Sauget, Illinois on Wednesday, June 16 at 7:05 pm CDT.
"I'd like to congratulate Shayne, Nik and Josh," said Otters manager Andy McCauley. "I know all three will represent the Otters organization well in Gateway."
Allen is in his first season of professional baseball. The Fort Meade, Florida native played collegiately at the University of West Florida and won a roster spot on the Otters after being selected in a tryout camp this spring. Allen is hitting .287, third highest on the team, with 15 runs batted in and four stolen bases.
"It has been a surreal experience so far this year," said Allen. "I thank God every day for putting coach McCauley in my life to give me the opportunity that he has. The entire Otters family has been the best organization I have been a part of in my entire baseball career. I look forward to representing the Otters and learning as much as I can while I'm there."
Balog is also in his first season with Evansville. The Saratoga, California native played two seasons in the Baltimore Orioles organization before joining the Otters. Balog leads the Otters with a .316 batting average. He also has five home runs and 18 runs batted in this season.
"Nik has been a consistent threat at the plate for us, as well as a very talented first baseman," added McCauley. "I'm very happy for Nik."
Houck is in his first season as an Otter. The Barto, Pennsylvania native was selected in the 29th round of the 2009 MLB Draft by the San Francisco Giants. He played two years in the Giants organization before arriving in Evansville. He is hitting .279 this season for the Otters with a team-best 12 doubles, 8 home runs, and 23 runs batted in.
"Shayne has done a tremendous job for us so far this season," said McCauley. "I'm very happy for him and certainly deserves his All-Star nomination."
Fans wishing to purchase All-Star game tickets can contact the Grizzlies ticket office at 618-337-3000.
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