Caid Chittum combined flashy defense, some strong at bats and even a few innings on the mound during last weekend’s Division II State American Legion Baseball Tournament.
The all-around play made Chittum an easy selection for the all-state tournament team.
Chittum was Ely’s only honoree on the 15-member squad, chosen by tournament officials.
The recognition came after Chittum collected two hits and made numerous big plays in the field in Ely’s lone win - an Aug. 1, 7-6 consolation round victory over southeastern representative La Crescent.
The senior also added two hits and a run batted in during Ely’s 10-3 loss to Esko in the consolation finals, while he worked three innings on the mound in relief - and did not give up an earned run - when the hosts fell 6-5 to Sibley East in the opening round.
Chittum also had a hit and a run batted in during the first-round match up.
For the season, Chittum put up impressive numbers, hitting a team-best .468 with 21 runs batted in. On the mound, Chittum went 1-0 in limited duty, with a 0.00 earned run average and 14 strikeouts in nine-and-twothirds innings of work.
Chittum also anchored Ely’s defense at shortstop, helping to turn three double plays during the course of the tournament.
The all-tournament award for Chittum comes on the heels of a high school season in which he earned All-State Class A recognition. He was named to both All-Arrowhead Conference and All-Section 7A four times during his high school career.
