Rylan Mills named Class 1 Player of the Year, leads Oran's all-state haul

ORAN, Mo. — With junior catcher Rylan Mills leading the way as the Class 1 Player of the Year, the Oran Eagles claimed seven spots on the Missouri Baseball Coaches Association All-State Teams. 

This recognition comes on the heels of a recent state championship victory, showcasing the depth and talent of the program.

Mills, a standout behind the plate, anchored the championship run with a remarkable season. He led the team with a .468 batting average (min. 10 at-bats), 37 RBIs, 10 doubles, and six home runs. 

Oran's Gabe Dirnberger (25) throws a pitch during a 6-0 win over Sikeston at VFW Stadium on Wednesday, April 30, 2024. Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

His clutch performances in the postseason, including a solo home run that secured a 1-0 quarterfinal win over Norwood and another long ball estimated at 403 feet in the state championship game, solidified his status as the Class 1 Player of the Year.

But Mills was not alone in his accolades. The Eagles boasted three other first-team selections: senior pitcher Gabe Dirnberger, senior second baseman Brenden Campbell, and junior outfielder Kole Burger.

A true ace, Dirnberger delivered a flawless 7-0 record over 43 innings, showcasing his command and composure on the mound. His 46 strikeouts and team-leading 0.677 ERA speak volumes about his ability to shut down opposing offenses.

Oran celebrates an 11-1 win over Sacred Heart as Cooper Senciboy (9), Nolan Loper (0) and Brenden Campbell (20) hold the MSHSAA Class 1 State Championship Trophy high at Ozark Mountain Sports Complex on Tuesday, May 28, 2024.Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

Campbell's reliable presence at the plate and in the field was amplified down the stretch, as he batted .395 with 30 hits, five doubles, and 24 RBIs, playing a crucial role in the title run.

Meanwhile, Burger made a significant impact at the plate, collecting 33 hits (a team-high) and boasting a .440 batting average, along with six doubles, a home run, and 24 RBIs. As he enters his senior season, Burger is poised to be one of the most exciting players to watch in the area.

Oran’s dominance extended to the second team, where it placed junior pitcher Parker Bryant, senior shortstop Nolan Loper, and junior third baseman Carson Kern.

Bryant was a key contributor to Oran's pitching staff, throwing 43 innings with a 6-3 record and a 2.44 ERA while leading the team with 77 strikeouts. Loper and Kern provided valuable offensive support, batting .312 and .352, respectively, with a combined 39 hits and 33 RBIs.

Oran's impressive showing on the all-state teams reflects a program firing on all cylinders, with a blend of experienced veterans and emerging young talent. While the Eagles celebrate this well-deserved recognition, they have their eyes firmly fixed on the future, eager to build on this year's success.