The Salem State University baseball team has a rich history of competitiveness and excellence, with a strong presence in the NCAA Division III athletics. As a member of the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC), the team has consistently demonstrated its skills and dedication to the sport.
History of the Program
The Salem State University baseball team has been in existence since 1960, with a few years of hiatus in the early 2000s. During its early years, the team competed in the NCAA Division II, before transitioning to Division III in 1980. Since then, the team has become a staple in the MASCAC, with numerous conference championships and appearances in the NCAA Tournament.
Recent Seasons and Highlights
In recent years, the Salem State University baseball team has experienced a resurgence in success. The 2019 season saw the team win its first MASCAC championship since 2013, with a 12-2 record in conference play. The team's impressive performance earned them a spot in the NCAA Tournament, where they ultimately fell to the University of Southern Maine.
The 2020 season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the team showed promise with a 6-2 record before the season was cancelled. The team's strong start was led by the impressive pitching of sophomore Andrew McLaughlin, who boasted a 1.38 ERA and 24 strikeouts in just 13 innings pitched.
Notable Alumni
The Salem State University baseball team has produced several notable alumni who have gone on to successful careers in professional baseball. One such example is former pitcher Mike McCarthy, who was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 14th round of the 2011 MLB Draft. McCarthy has since played for several minor league teams, including the Greenville Drive and the Portland Sea Dogs.
Another notable alumnus is former infielder Alex Toomey, who was named the MASCAC Player of the Year in 2018. Toomey went on to play for the Worcester Bravehearts of the Futures Collegiate Baseball League, where he hit.308 with 10 home runs and 30 RBIs.
Facilities and Coaching Staff
The Salem State University baseball team plays its home games at Central Campus Field, a state-of-the-art facility with a seating capacity of 500. The field features a natural grass surface, with a dimensions of 320 feet down the left and right field lines, and 400 feet to center field.
The team is led by Head Coach Mike Medeiros, who has been at the helm since 2007. Medeiros has led the team to several conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances, and has been named the MASCAC Coach of the Year twice. He is assisted by a experienced coaching staff, including pitching coach Mike Korobov and hitting coach Alex Toomey.
Recruitment and Eligibility
The Salem State University baseball team is actively recruiting talented student-athletes who are interested in competing at the NCAA Division III level. Prospective recruits must meet the NCAA's eligibility requirements, which include:
- A minimum GPA of 2.3 in high school
- A minimum score of 1010 on the SAT or 86 on the ACT
- Completion of 16 core courses in high school, including 4 years of English, 3 years of math, and 2 years of science
Interested recruits can contact Coach Medeiros or the athletic department to learn more about the recruitment process and to schedule a visit to campus.
Gallery of Salem State University Baseball Team
FAQs
What is the Salem State University baseball team's conference affiliation?
+The Salem State University baseball team is a member of the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC).
What are the team's home games like?
+The team's home games are played at Central Campus Field, a state-of-the-art facility with a seating capacity of 500.
How do I contact the coaching staff to learn more about recruitment?
+Interested recruits can contact Coach Medeiros or the athletic department to learn more about the recruitment process and to schedule a visit to campus.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Salem State University baseball team. From its rich history to its recent successes, the team is a force to be reckoned with in NCAA Division III athletics. Whether you're a prospective recruit or a die-hard fan, we encourage you to follow the team's progress and show your support for the Vikings.