Palm Beach Atlantic University, a private Christian university located in West Palm Beach, Florida, is known for its strong athletic programs, including its baseball team. The PBAU Sailfish baseball team has been a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division II Sunshine State Conference, producing talented players and competing at a high level. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Palm Beach Atlantic University baseball team, its history, notable players, and what makes it a great program for aspiring baseball players.
History of the PBAU Baseball Team
The Palm Beach Atlantic University baseball team was established in 1990, and since then, it has been a member of the NCAA Division II and the Sunshine State Conference. The team has a rich history, with several conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. The Sailfish have also produced numerous professional baseball players, including several who have made it to the Major Leagues.
Notable Players
The PBAU baseball team has a long list of notable players who have gone on to achieve great success in the sport. Some of the most notable players include:- Ryan Prior, a left-handed pitcher who was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in 2008 and played in the minor leagues for several years.
- Josh Roe, a right-handed pitcher who was drafted by the Los Angeles Angels in 2010 and played in the minor leagues for several years.
- Blake Barber, a shortstop who was drafted by the New York Mets in 2015 and played in the minor leagues for several years.
Facilities and Equipment
The Palm Beach Atlantic University baseball team plays its home games at Rubin Park, a state-of-the-art facility located on the university's campus. The park features a natural grass field, seating for over 1,000 fans, and a press box. The team also has access to a top-notch training facility, which includes a weight room, batting cages, and a pitching lab.
Coaching Staff
The PBAU baseball team is led by a experienced coaching staff, which includes:- Head Coach: Kent Bottenfield, a former Major League pitcher who has been leading the team since 2008.
- Assistant Coaches: Rob Masse, a former professional player who has been with the team since 2010, and Tom Gordon, a former professional player who joined the team in 2015.
Academics and Community Involvement
The Palm Beach Atlantic University baseball team is committed to excellence in the classroom as well as on the field. The team has a strong academic record, with several players earning All-American honors and graduating with high honors. The team is also involved in various community outreach programs, including working with local youth baseball leagues and participating in charity events.
Recruiting and Eligibility
The PBAU baseball team recruits players from all over the country, looking for talented athletes who are committed to academic excellence and community service. To be eligible to play for the team, players must meet the NCAA's eligibility requirements, which include:- Being a high school graduate or having a GED certificate
- Meeting the NCAA's minimum GPA requirements
- Scoring well on the SAT or ACT
- Being a amateur athlete, meaning they have not played professional baseball
Conclusion
The Palm Beach Atlantic University baseball team is a great program for aspiring baseball players who are looking for a strong academic and athletic experience. With its rich history, talented players, and experienced coaching staff, the team is a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division II. If you are a high school baseball player looking for a great college program, consider PBAU.Gallery of PBAU Baseball Team
FAQ Section
What is the PBAU baseball team's record?
+The PBAU baseball team has a strong record, with several conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances.
Who is the head coach of the PBAU baseball team?
+The head coach of the PBAU baseball team is Kent Bottenfield, a former Major League pitcher.
What are the eligibility requirements for playing for the PBAU baseball team?
+To be eligible to play for the PBAU baseball team, players must meet the NCAA's eligibility requirements, which include being a high school graduate or having a GED certificate, meeting the NCAA's minimum GPA requirements, scoring well on the SAT or ACT, and being an amateur athlete.