---Shaffer led the Norse with three triples and 93 total bases in 2007.

By Mike Anderson, NKU Sports Information

HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. – Northern Kentucky University baseball player Jake Shaffer was named an NCAA Division II preseason All-American by Baseball America this week.

Shaffer, entering his second season at NKU after transferring from Winthrop, led the Norse in 2007 in several offensive statistical categories, including batting average (.347), slugging percentage (.467), runs (30), doubles (12), triples (3), and total bases (93). He was one of just two players to start all 52 contests for the Norse last year.

Shaffer’s performance earned him a spot on the All-Great Lakes Valley Conference second team last season.

“Jake is one of the best hitters I’ve ever seen at this level,” said NKU head coach Todd Asalon. “He hits for average very well, he’s got great speed on the base paths. Scouts are calling him a five-tool guy.”

Shaffer was also named one of the top three prospects in Division II for 2008.

Northern Kentucky begins its baseball season Feb. 23 in Nashville, Tenn., where they will face Grand Valley State in a regional doubleheader. The Norse open their home schedule March 12 against Findlay.

Baseball America NCAA Division II All-America Team

C – Matt Adams, So., Slippery Rock
1B – Erik Lovett, Sr., Mount Olive
2B – Steve Lafred, Sr., Angelo State
3B – Randy Rutherford, Sr., Columbus State (Ga.)
SS – Scott Savastand, Jr., Franklin Pierce
OF – Brad Goldsmith, Sr., St. Edwards (Texas)
OF – Junior Mejia, Jr., Tampa
OF – Matt Mindick, Jr., Nova Southeastern
OF – Jake Shaffer, Jr., Northern Kentucky
DH – Clay Calfee, Jr., Angelo State
UT – Trey Watten, Jr., Abilene Christian
P – Patrick Colgan, Sr., St. Edwards (Texas)
P – Kevin Ferguson, Sr., Tampa
P – Justin Smith, Sr., Delta State