June 9, 2010

TUCSON, Ariz. - Samford freshman left-handed pitcher Lex Rutledge was named to the Louisville Slugger Freshman All-America Team, Collegiate Baseball announced on Wednesday.

Rutledge, a native of Tupelo, Miss., was one of 12 relief pitchers named to the 88-man squad. There were 25 total pitchers named to the team (13 starters, 12 relievers).

Rutledge had a stellar freshman season at Samford in 2010. Serving as the team's closer, Rutledge tied a Samford record with 11 saves. He also posted a record of 5-1 and an impressive 1.71 ERA in 47.1 innings of work. He also led the team in strikeouts with 65 on the season.

At the conclusion of the season, Rutledge was named second-team All-Conference in the Southern Conference, and he was named to the SoCon's All-Freshman team. Rutledge was also selected last week to participate in the 2010 USA Baseball Collegiate National Team Trials in June.

Rutledge is one of just three Southern Conference players named to the team. He is joined by Davidson third baseman Andrew Barna and Furman shortstop Will Muzika as the SoCon's representatives on the squad.