The Joplin Globe, Joplin, MO

High School Sports

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June 2, 2012

Webb City's Richie Peoples signs with Crowder

By Anvil Welch Globe Sports Writer

Richie Peoples, a solid contributor for the Webb City High School baseball team the past two seasons, signed a letter of intent with Crowder College last week.

Rob Vessell, pitching coach under Travis Lallemand at the Neosho junior college, came to Webb City for the signing ceremony.

Webb City coach Chris Taylor believes that Peoples, a right-hander, was 5-1 with about an ERA of 3.00 as a senior.

“He did an outstanding job for us as a senior (on the mound),” Taylor said. “He beat Joplin and McDonald County in his last two starts and struck out 12 against the Mustangs in the district tournament.”

Taylor said the right-handed batting Peoples, who also played right field, hit just under .300 as a senior for the Cardinals.

“He didn’t pitch as a junior (for the varsity) but always had taken his turn on the mound in the summer (Webb City Post 322),” Taylor said. “This summer is his fourth in being a big part of the American Legion staff.

“This summer, in addition to pitching, he’ll probably play some second base as well as the outfield,” Taylor said.

“Richie became more of a pitcher than just a thrower as a senior,” Taylor said. “He needs to get better command — just like anyone else — to continue to improve as a pitcher.”

Peoples earned three letters for the Cardinals. He saw some duty as their DH. The 5-foot-10, 165-pounder also played football as a defensive back-receiver.

“I’m very happy for the opportunity,” Peoples said. “I’m sure I’ll be a relief pitcher in the beginning. I’m blessed to have the chance to continue to play baseball.”

Richie, unsure of a major, is the son of Michele and Rick Peoples.

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