Kentucky State University

Stephen Ford was recruited to play baseball out of Detroit Central High School by Head Coach James Oliver in 1971. While playing at Kentucky State University, Steve was a four year starter. During his freshman year, Steve led the team in doubles and triples. He also finished second with a batting average over .300 and second in runs-batted-in, which helped lead the Thorobreds to its first winning season in over a decade.
 
In 1973, his sophomore year, Steve was a key player in leading KSU to it best record in school his-tory. Steve batted over .300, leading the team in home runs, triples and doubles. He was named the team’s Most Improved Player, for his outstanding season.
 
During the 1974 season, he established himself as the team’s Most Versatile Player in KSU baseball history. He started and played seven of the nine positions on the baseball field during this season. Additionally, due to injuries to the KSU pitching staff, Steve became the first player in KSU history to pitch a complete doubleheader. Steve’s efforts in those two games earned the KSU baseball team a shot in the NAIA baseball tournament for the first time in over 20 years.
 
In 1975, Steve’s senior year, he led the KSU baseball team to the best record in school history. The team finished with 43 wins and 10 loses. Steve batted .337, led the team in triples, tied for first in games played and was second in home runs. His efforts help lead the KSU baseball team to the highest team batting average in the nation.
 
Steve finished his KSU baseball career as the career leader in triples (7 from 1971 to 1975), doubles (23 from 1971 to 1975), at bats (338 from 1971 to 1975) and games played. He was selected on the NAIA All-District Team in 1974 and 1975. He also earned four Athletic Letters during his four year career at KSU. After finishing his KSU career, Steve signed a professional baseball contract to play for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
 
Steve retired from the State of Michigan and currently lives in Detroit, Michigan.