Kansas City, Mo. - Central Methodist senior outfielder Ryan Malzahn capped his final collegiate season with NAIA All-America honors, which were announced by the national office Thursday. 

Malzahn was named to the third team and became the first Eagle to earn All-America honors since Carlos Negron, Tanner Sears, and Bobby Nichols were each recognized in 2024. 

He was also named a third-team All-American by the American Baseball Coaches' Association. 

The native of Foristell, Missouri, was a force at the dish in his final collegiate season, leading both the Eagles and the conference in home runs (16) while posting a .386 batting average, which ranked fifth in the Heart.

He played in 47 games for Central, tallying 56 hits, including nine doubles and two triples. Malzahn drove in 51 RBI, scored 47 runs, and compiled a .807 slugging percentage.

He was twice named Heart Baseball Player of the Week and recorded four multi-home run games, including a three-home run performance against Missouri Valley on March 28.

In the outfield, Malzahn posted a perfect fielding percentage, recording 77 putouts in 82 total chances with five assists.

He was named the Heart Player of the Year, a First Team All-Conference selection, and a Heart Gold Glove recipient for his play in left field. 

To view the NAIA release on the 2026 Baseball All-America teams, please click here. 

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