Graves Named to the Johnny Bench Award Watch List
WICHITA, KANSAS – The Greater Wichita Area Sports Commission announced the official watch list for the 2010 Coleman Company-Johnny Bench Award delivered by Papa John’s Pizza. Fifty-three catchers including Southern Miss’ Travis Graves was nominated for the award given annually to the top division one catcher.
Graves is in his second year as a Golden Eagle catcher and the Mesquite, Texas native has played in all seven games this season, starting six behind the plate. While the award focuses mainly on defense, Graves is hitting .286 with a double and three RBI.
The watch list will be narrowed down to ten semifinalists, whom will be announced May 19, 2010. Ballots will be sent to the national voting panel at the end of May for a vote to determine the three finalists. The finalists will be announced June 2, 2010 prior to the NCAA Regionals and Major League Baseball Draft.
A final vote among the national committee will occur during the College World Series. All finalists will be brought to Wichita and the winner will be announced at the 13th Annual Greater Wichita Sports Banquet on July 1, 2010.
“We are extremely appreciative to the Coleman Company, Papa John’s Pizza and Mr. Johnny Bench for supporting this prestigious award,” stated Bob Hanson, President/CEO of the Sports Commission. “They are the ones who make all of this possible.”
While Bench is remembered for his offense, he may have had the greatest impact behind the plate. He was the first receiver to use a protective helmet in the field, popularized catching one-handed and kept his throwing hand behind his back to protect it from foul tips.
Graves and the Golden Eagles return to action on Wednesday as they host La. Monroe for a midweek game, first pitch is set for 6:30 p.m.
