Sikeston’s Mitchell, NMCC’s Swims earn All-SEMO honors

The All-SEMO Conference baseball team was recently announced, showcasing the region’s top talent. 

Poplar Bluff’s Kolby Greenwell earned Player of the Year honors and Jackson’s John Paul Sauer and Josh Roach were named Pitcher of the Year and Coach of the Year respectively.

However, two local standouts from Sikeston and New Madrid County Central also earned a spot on the prestigious team.

New Madrid County Central's Brady Swims (42) throws a pitch during an 11-3 win over Sikeston at VFW Stadium on Monday, April 3. Dennis Marshall ~ Standard-Democrat

Sikeston sophomore Peyton Mitchell, a first baseman and pitcher, showcased his versatility throughout the season, contributing both at the plate and on the mound. 

Offensively, Mitchell batted .355 with 22 hits, including five doubles. His speed and baseball IQ also translated to 14 runs scored and eight RBIs. 

As a pitcher, Mitchell proved to be a valuable asset in the Bulldogs’ rotation, throwing 20.1 innings and striking out 19 batters.

“ I’m extremely happy that [Mitchell] was recognized by coaches in the area,” said Sikeston coach Wyatt Pratt. “It was well deserved. [Mitchell’s] talent on the ball field is undeniable and will always speak for itself. He is developing into a rare player who can lead others both by example and as a motivator. I’m excited to see what the future holds for him and will certainly be a player for everyone to keep an eye on.”

New Madrid County Central’s Brady Swims, a senior pitcher and shortstop, was a dominant two-way force for the Eagles. Swims’ pitching prowess was evident in his impressive 74 strikeouts over 45 innings of work. 

At the plate, Swims boasted a .385 batting average with 20 hits, including four doubles and three home runs. His power and run production were key to the Eagles’ success, as he tallied 17 RBIs and crossed the plate 12 times.

“[Swims] was our guy,” said NMCC coach Jordan Kimball. “Our kids believed we always had a chance to win with him on the mound. He also led us at the plate in batting average and home runs.”

The full All-SEMO Conference team also includes Dexter’s Beau Carter and Justus Lovelady; Notre Dame’s Jack Evans and Brycen Clark; Kennett’s Hayden Gilmore and Ashton Williams; Cape Central’s Jathan Spain; Poplar Bluff’s Greenwell, Noah Spain, Dylan Bratcher, and Kade Huffman; and Jackson’s Sauer, Carson McDaniel, Jaiden Glency, Cooper Rhodes, and Garrison Brown.