Special to the Reporter

The Cahaba Mudcats, a 12-and-under aged baseball team, recently placed third at the International Baseball Championships World Series in Clearwater, Fla.

The Mudcats, representing the state of Alabama, competed against 21 other teams from Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida and Puerto Rico.

The Mudcats earned a World Series berth by going undefeated in the IBC Decatur Showcase.

Pitcher Bradley Raulston and shortstop Austin Freeman were named to the All-Tournament team at the conclusion of the tournament.

Mudcats team members include: Andrew Bishop, Michael Bishop and Anthony Rodriguez, all of Pelham; Chad King of Columbiana; Trent Posey of Calera; Jamie Garzarek and Taylor Hereford, both of Helena; Ben Thebaud of Hoover; Bradley Raulston of Pell City; and Austin Freeman and Hunter Ragsdale, both of Gardendale.

The Mudcats are coached by James Bishop, head coach, and assistant coaches Jeff Ragsdale and Mark Hereford