5 Facts About Emporia State University Baseball

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The crack of the bat, the smell of freshly cut grass, and the roar of the crowd are just a few of the exciting elements that make college baseball so thrilling. Emporia State University, located in Emporia, Kansas, is home to one of the most storied and successful baseball programs in the NCAA Division II. As a fan of the Hornets, you might be interested in learning more about the team's history, achievements, and traditions. Here are five fascinating facts about Emporia State University baseball:

A Rich History of Excellence

Emporia State University's baseball program has a long and storied history, dating back to the early 20th century. The team has won numerous conference championships, including 14 MIAA titles, and has appeared in the NCAA Tournament 17 times. The Hornets have also produced several MLB players, including notable alumni like Bob Dernier and Steve Renko.

Conference Dominance

Emporia State University has been a dominant force in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) for decades. The team has won 14 conference championships, including a streak of five consecutive titles from 1995 to 1999. The Hornets have also been crowned co-champions of the MIAA on several occasions, showcasing their consistent excellence in the conference.

Postseason Success

The Hornets have enjoyed significant success in the NCAA Tournament, with 17 appearances since 1960. Emporia State University has advanced to the College World Series on four occasions, finishing as high as third place in 1970. The team has also won several regional championships, demonstrating their ability to compete at the highest level.

Trabert's Triumphs

One of the most successful coaches in Emporia State University baseball history is Bob Trabert. Trabert, who coached the team from 1981 to 2005, accumulated a staggering 732-426 record, including 14 conference championships and 10 NCAA Tournament appearances. His.632 winning percentage is still the highest in school history, and he was inducted into the Emporia State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007.

Emporia State University Baseball Stadium

The Hornets play their home games at the Emporia State University Baseball Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2002. The stadium features a seating capacity of 2,000, with amenities like a press box, concession stands, and a scoreboard. The field itself is a lush, well-manicured expanse of grass, providing a fantastic playing surface for the team.

Notable Alumni

Emporia State University has a proud tradition of producing talented baseball players who go on to succeed at the professional level. Notable alumni include:

• Bob Dernier: A center fielder who played for the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs, and Philadelphia Phillies from 1977 to 1989.
• Steve Renko: A pitcher who played for the Montreal Expos, Kansas City Royals, and California Angels from 1969 to 1983.
• Ryan Manley: A catcher who played for the Kansas City Royals from 2005 to 2006.

These players, along with many others, have helped establish Emporia State University as a respected program in the world of college baseball.

Championships and Accolades

Emporia State University's baseball program has accumulated an impressive array of championships and accolades over the years. Some notable achievements include:

• 14 MIAA championships
• 17 NCAA Tournament appearances
• 4 College World Series appearances
• 10 regional championships

These accomplishments demonstrate the team's commitment to excellence and their ability to compete at the highest level.

We hope you've enjoyed learning more about the Emporia State University baseball program. Whether you're a current student, a proud alumnus, or simply a fan of the sport, there's no denying the excitement and camaraderie that comes with being part of the Hornets' community.