TCU junior pitcher Kyle Winkler has been named one of 30 semifinalists for USA Baseball’s Golden Spikes Award. The award goes to the nation’s top collegiate baseball player.

Winkler has enjoyed a tremendous junior campaign. In 13 appearances, he has posted an 8-2 record to go along with a miniscule 1.40 ERA. All 12 of his starts this season have lasted at least six innings and he has tossed two complete games. In a team-high 90 innings pitched, Winkler has fanned 98 batters and is limiting opponents to just a .201 batting average against. His outstanding season was honored as he was selected first-team all-conference.

In 2007, USA Baseball instituted a new selection and balloting procedure for the most prestigious award in amateur baseball, and it will follow the same model again in 2011. After working closely with sports information directors and amateur baseball media across the country to determine watch lists and the top-performing athletes, a committee voted to determine the 30 semifinalists. A ballot featuring the names and accomplishments of the 30 semifinalists will now be sent to a group of nearly 200 voters which will select the three finalists and eventual winner.

Beginning today fans will also be able to vote on the 2011 GSA by visiting GoldenSpikesAward.com and selecting their favorite amateur player.

“USA Baseball congratulates each of the 30 student-athletes and their respective baseball programs,” said Paul Seiler, USA Baseball Executive Director/CEO. “With the increased exposure we are bringing to the Golden Spikes Award through the MLB Network this year, there is added excitement surrounding the voting process and live presentation. We wish all of the semifinalists the best of luck.”