Rockhurst senior Patrick Burns has always taken pride in his defense. This past summer, he was rewarded for it. Burns was named the top defensive player in the Ban Johnson Baseball League and given the Frank White Award for Fielding Excellence.

The league has presented the Frank White Award for the past 20 years. It is named in honor of eight-time American League Gold Glove winner and Royals Hall of Fame second baseman Frank White. White played in the Ban Johnson League before joining the Royals' Baseball Academy.

Burns played second base for the North Kansas City Apartments under head coach Tom Dailey. Dailey is the father of former Rockhurst standout catcher, T.J. Dailey.

"Our club was built on speed and defense, and he was an integral part of our success. He anchored the middle infield by making all the routine plays and turning hits into outs. He was the pitcher's best friend when it came to turning the double play in key situations," Dailey said regarding Burns.

Dailey was very excited for Burns and the Rockhurst upcoming season. "He should have a very good senior season for RU. Pat led our team (and the league if you counted our MINK league games) in stolen bases and taking the extra base, which was a big part of our identity. There will be a big hole to fill as he graduates this spring," Dailey stated.

Burns did not commit an error in 81 chances and had a .301 batting average. At the Ban Johnson League Banquet, he was asked what he attributed his fielding success to. He said matter-of-factly, "I was the groundskeeper at 3 & 2." Dailey and the entire crowd roared in laughter.

While only playing in 10 games in 2013, Burns broke into the starting lineup in 2014 for Rockhurst, primarily in the outfield. He made 20 starts while playing in 34 games. Burns posted a batting average of .274 while recording 17 hits, eight runs and seven RBI. He also posted an on-base percentage of .361.

Rockhurst coach Gary Burns was very proud one of his players was presented the award. "The Frank White Award for Fielding Excellence is a very prestigious award in the Ban Johnson League. Pat is well deserved, and has worked hard to become an excellent player at the collegiate level," Coach Burns stated. "In addition to his defensive skills, Pat will bring a tremendous amount of leadership to our club this spring."

"I think there is a lot to be excited about when it comes to this season. We have worked hard all offseason and we have high expectations," Patrick Burns stated. "If we can get rolling on all cylinders look out because this group has a lot of ability. The goals are all in place, now we have to go out and execute."