Miami University’s baseball team has made impressive strides this season, leading them to a strong performance in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) tournament, which kicks off with the RedHawks aiming for their first title since 2005. With a regular-season record of 32-21, they tied for the championship with Kent State, earning the top seed for the upcoming double-elimination tournament in Avon, Ohio.
Head Coach Brian Smiley has been recognized for his remarkable leadership, having been awarded the MAC Coach of the Year. Under his guidance, the RedHawks achieved a record 23 conference wins this season, marking a notable turnaround after a 27-27 record the previous year. The team’s resilience is also showcased through their undefeated conference series, where they took at least two games from every opponent, a testament to their outstanding preparation and performance.
Two of the standout players this season are Cooper Katskee and Evan Appelwick. Katskee, honored as the MAC Pitcher of the Year, boasts an impressive 10-1 record and a 2.86 ERA, while Appelwick, a First Team All-MAC selection, has become a powerhouse at the plate with a .317 batting average, ranking second in home runs (19) and tied for second in RBIs (69). Appelwick’s record-setting season makes him the all-time single-season RBI leader at Miami.
Dillon Baker, who also earned First Team All-MAC recognition, has had a stellar year, tying Miami’s single-season doubles record with 22. His contributions include a remarkable performance against rivals, demonstrating both power and consistency at the plate.
Furthermore, significant achievements have been recorded by other players, such as Ryan Novak and Anthony Zarlingo, who both made the All-MAC teams, showing the RedHawks’ depth across the lineup.
With high hopes and a strong roster, Miami University is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the conference tournament, paving the way for future success. The RedHawks not only aim for victory but also look to continue building their legacy in Miami baseball. As the tournament approaches, their supporters eagerly anticipate the outcomes, hopeful for a championship run.