Libertyville Native Mike Whartnaby's Home Run Helps Royals get to the Playoffs

SAINT PAUL, MN (05/14/2012)(readMedia)-- Bethel University sophomore Mike Whartnaby from Libertyville, Ill., helped the Royals get to the baseball playoffs for the first time in 12 years with his game-winning and first-ever home run. After he capitalized on a 3-2 pitch that sent a deep fly down the left field line, the tied game was finally won 4-3. Not only did Whartnaby have the game-winning homer, but he also finished 3-for-3 at the plate with two runs and the clinching RBI.

With its recent wins, Bethel improves to 11-9 (20-18) within conference play and advances to the MIAC Tournament. The last BU baseball team to advance to the conference playoffs was in 2000, after finishing the conference season 14-6.

Bethel University is a leader in Christ-centered higher education with approximately 6,600 students from 48 states and 25 countries enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, seminary, and adult education programs. Based in St. Paul, Minn., with additional seminary locations on both coasts, Bethel offers rigorous bachelor's and advanced degrees in nearly 100 relevant fields. For further information on Bethel University, go to www.bethel.edu.