University of Evansville senior-to-be first baseman Derek Melton (Trenton, Ohio/Edgewood) was involved in a swimming accident on Sunday afternoon at Pettibone Beach in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Melton is currently in La Crosse playing summer league baseball for the La Crosse Loggers of the Northwoods League and recently represented UE and La Crosse in the Northwoods League All-Star game.
Melton earned honorable mention all-Missouri Valley Conference honors at UE this past spring after hitting .287 with a team-high five home runs and 25 RBI. He has ranked among the Northwoods League’s top power hitters this summer, as he currently ranks third in the league in home runs (eight) and second in RBI (45), while boasting a .314 batting average for the La Crosse Loggers. Melton transferred to UE this past year after beginning his collegiate career at Wabash Valley Community College. Melton is a native of Trenton, Ohio and a former baseball and football standout at Edgewood High School outside of Cincinnati.
Below are statements released by Derek’s parents, the La Crosse Loggers’ organization, and the University of Evansville athletics department:
Statement from Teresa and Ernie Melton, parents of Derek Melton:
“Derek was involved in a swimming accident at Pettibone Park in La Crosse late Sunday afternoon. We do not have additional details on Derek’s accident. He is currently in stable condition. Our focus now is on helping Derek get better. We would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. We ask that the media respect our privacy as we focus on the recovery of our son.”
Statement from Wes Carroll, UE head baseball coach:
“Obviously, the thoughts and prayers of our entire program and community go out to Derek and his family. Derek is an outstanding young man and I know that every player, alum, and member of the program is pulling for him and wishing him well in the recovery process.”
Statement from John Stanley, UE Director of Athletics:
“Derek Melton has represented himself and the University of Evansville in an exemplary manner during his association with our school. The accident makes it a difficult time for everyone involved and all of us at the University will be thinking about Derek and his family. He has been a popular and respected young man and we are all hoping for the best during his recovery.”
Statement from the La Crosse Loggers organization:
“One of our players, Derek Melton, was injured on Sunday afternoon as the result of a swimming accident. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Loggers organization and the players are with the Melton family as Derek begins his recovery.”
Fans and friends who are interested in receiving updates on Derek’s status, or to pass along well wishes, can visit www.caringbridge.org, click the visit tab, and type in derekmelton in lower case letters and no spaces to view updates.
