Southeast Missouri State center fielder Cole Bieser's strong junior season has ended prematurely.

It was announced Tuesday morning that Bieser will miss the rest of the year with a wrist injury that will require surgery.

"That's a big loss for us," said Southeast coach Steve Bieser, who is Cole's father. "He's a leader on the team. He has a lot of energy. He always brings a fire and we feed off that."

Cole Bieser injured his left wrist while attempting to make a diving catch April 16 against Arkansas State. He immediately came out of the game and missed last weekend's three-game Ohio Valley Conference series at Eastern Illinois.

It was originally hoped that Bieser only sprained his wrist but results of an MRI revealed torn ligaments.

Bieser is batting .306 and ranks among the OVC leaders in stolen bases, having swiped 15 without being caught. He was first in the league in steals at the time of his injury.

"Anybody you lose, it's tough," Steve Bieser said. "It's a shame. He's worked really hard and he was having a fine season. I'm sure he'll bounce back."

Southeast has primarily used sophomore Jason Blum in center field since Bieser went out. Freshman Clayton Evans has also seen action there.

Steve Bieser said the plan is for Blum, who had been playing second base, to be the Redhawks' primary center fielder the rest of the season.

"We're hoping he'll take charge in that spot," Steve Bieser said.