Alitz nabs player of the year honors

Garden City, Kan (westernkansasnews.com)-The narrative continues: great players earn recognition, and Tyler Alitz fits the mold. 

After a stellar sophomore campaign that got the Busters within three wins of the World Series, the former Buster shortstop was named the NJCAA Division I defensive player of the year.

Consider this number: In 277 total chances during the season, Alitz tallied 88 putouts and ranked fourth in the nation with 175 assists. Add the fact that he helped turn 13 double plays and showcased a .949 fielding percentage, and you can see why the Omaha native was also one of nine players to earn the prestigious Gold-Glove Award. 

Alitz, who had recently inked a national letter of intent with Moorehead State, died in a car accident back on May 21.