Stuckey, Hopkins going pro

Southeast Missouri State University standouts Denver Stuckey and Brian Hopkins were disappointed when they were not selected in the recent baseball draft.

But Stuckey and Hopkins will both have the opportunity to play professional baseball -- although not yet with a major league organization -- as they have hooked up with teams in the independent Frontier League.

Hopkins signed late last week with the River City Rascals, based in O'Fallon, Mo., and has already appeared in one game.

Stuckey, a former Kelly High School star, has agreed to contract terms with the Evansville (Ind.) Otters and will report to the team today.

"I'm excited about it," Stuckey said Sunday. "I think it's a good opportunity for me and I can't wait to start playing."

Hopkins, an outfielder, was a three-year starter for Southeast after transferring from junior college. This year he had a career season, batting .401 and leading the Ohio Valley Conference in home runs with 18.

Stuckey was a four-year starter for the Indians at third base. He batted .338 this season.

While Craftsman Union Capahas manager Jess Bolen is losing two key members of his undefeated summer team, he's not about to complain.

"It gives us a couple of more holes, but I'm always happy when guys sign professional contracts," Bolen said. "I wish them nothing but the best."

Zach Borowiak, another of Bolen's players and a four-year starter at shortstop for Southeast, was drafted in the 14th round by the Red Sox and has been assigned to the rookie league Lowell (Mass.) Spinners, who begin their season Tuesday.

Stuckey and Hopkins will join two other Southeast products in the Frontier League. Darin Kinsolving plays for the Chillicothe (Ohio) Paints and Phil Warren is with the Gateway (Ill.) Grizzlies. Both completed their eligibility at Southeast in 2000.