A.J. Morris among league's elite

MOSES LAKE - Moses Lake starting pitcher A.J. Morris is sitting atop the West Coast Collegiate Baseball League (WCCBL).

After playing 42 games for the Pirates this season, Morris is the only First Team All-WCCBL selection for Moses Lake. The All-WCCBL teams were voted on by the eight WCCBL team coaches. Morris was one of the league's top vote getters.

Morris said he was surprised by his selection.

"I hadn't heard that," he said when asked about his all league selection.

While the news caught Morris off guard, he said he is humbled by the honor.

"It's always great to receive an honor such as this," he said. "To be recognized in a league that is very talented is awesome."

Morris enjoyed his time in Moses Lake and learned how to improve his skills while playing for the Pirates, he said.

"I always try to increase my work ethic," he said. "An award like this drives me to work harder."

Morris finished the season with a 1-3 record and led the WCCBL in strikeouts with 57.

While Morris was the only first team selection for the Pirates, he was not the only all league selection.

Outfielder Dane Yelovich, catcher Nick Stiltner, pitcher Matt Lujan, infielder Cesar Lopez, pitcher Mike McCarthy, infielder Brandon Huerta and infielder Tyler Heil received honorable mention All-WCCBL.

The WCCBL is an eight-team, wood-bat league comprised of collegiate baseball players from conferences across the country, including the Pac-10 and Big West Conferences.