When it comes to college baseball, the Ball State Cardinals have produced some truly remarkable talent. From pitchers who have dominated the mound to hitters who have made their mark in Major League Baseball (MLB), the Cardinals roster boasts a rich history of exceptional players. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best Ball State Cardinals baseball players ever. We’ll explore their achievements, career highlights, and contributions to the sport.
The Legendary Pitchers of Ball State
Zach Plesac
Zach Plesac, a standout pitcher for the Ball State Cardinals baseball team, has become a household name in the MLB. Known for his precision and skill, Plesac made his MLB debut with the Cleveland Guardians (formerly known as the Cleveland Indians) in 2019. His impressive performances on the mound have made him one of the most successful Ball State alumni in professional baseball. Plesac’s ability to control the game and keep hitters off balance has been a key factor in his success.
Bryan Bullington
Another remarkable pitcher from the Ball State Cardinals is Bryan Bullington. Drafted as the first overall pick in the 2002 MLB Draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates, Bullington had high expectations from the start. Although his MLB career didn’t pan out as expected, he left an indelible mark at Ball State. Bullington’s dominance on the mound during his college years earned him numerous accolades and a place in Cardinals history.
Steve Hargan
Steve Hargan, a former Ball State pitcher, enjoyed a successful career in MLB. Known for his fastball and curveball, Hargan played for teams like the Cleveland Indians and Texas Rangers. His time at Ball State laid the foundation for his professional success, where he became an All-Star in 1967. Hargan’s journey from college baseball to the big leagues serves as an inspiration to aspiring pitchers.
Notable Hitters from Ball State
Larry Bigbie
Larry Bigbie, a former outfielder for the Ball State Cardinals, made a significant impact in the MLB. Drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the first round of the 1999 MLB Draft, Bigbie quickly rose through the ranks. Known for his power at the plate and solid defensive skills, he had a successful stint with the Orioles. Bigbie’s career in MLB was marked by memorable moments and contributions to his teams.
Jeremy Hazelbaker
Jeremy Hazelbaker, known for his versatility on the field, played for the Cardinals before making it to the MLB. Hazelbaker’s journey to the majors was one of perseverance and determination. He made his MLB debut with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2016 and later played for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Hazelbaker’s ability to adapt and excel in different roles made him a valuable asset to his teams.
Alex Call
Alex Call, another talented outfielder from Ball State, has been making waves in professional baseball. Known for his strong arm and consistent hitting, Call has shown great promise in the minor leagues. As he continues to develop his skills, many baseball enthusiasts have high hopes for his future in the MLB. His time at Ball State laid a solid foundation for his career in professional baseball.
Ball State Cardinals in the Majors
Merv Rettenmund
Merv Rettenmund, an outfielder who played for the Cardinals, went on to have a successful MLB career. Known for his hitting prowess and excellent defensive skills, Rettenmund played for several teams, including the Baltimore Orioles and Cincinnati Reds. His contributions to the Orioles’ 1970 World Series victory are still remembered by baseball fans today. Rettenmund’s journey from Ball State to MLB stardom serves as an inspiration to aspiring players.
Mike Roesler
Mike Roesler, a former pitcher for the Ball State Cardinals, had a brief but impactful MLB career. He played for teams like the Cincinnati Reds and Pittsburgh Pirates. Roesler’s time in MLB may have been short-lived, but his journey from college baseball to the majors is a testament to his talent and determination. His story continues to inspire young pitchers aiming to make it to the big leagues.
Thomas Howard
Thomas Howard, a former outfielder for the Cardinals, had a notable career in MLB. Known for his speed and ability to make spectacular catches, Howard played for teams like the San Diego Padres and Cincinnati Reds. His versatility on the field and contributions to his teams made him a respected player in the league. Howard’s journey from Ball State to the majors showcases the potential of Cardinals players.
Drey Jameson
Drey Jameson, a rising star from Ball State, has shown great promise in professional baseball. Drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2019, Jameson’s impressive pitching abilities have garnered attention. His time at Ball State helped him develop the skills needed to excel at the next level. As he continues to progress in his career, Jameson is poised to become a key player in the MLB.
Conclusion
The Ball State Cardinals baseball program has a rich history of producing top-notch talent. From pitchers who have dominated the mound to hitters who have made their mark in MLB, the Cardinals roster boasts some of the best players in college baseball history. The achievements and contributions of players like Zach Plesac, Bryan Bullington, and Larry Bigbie serve as a testament to the Cardinals’ legacy of excellence. As new talents like Drey Jameson and Alex Call continue to emerge, the future looks bright for Ball State Cardinals baseball.
Whether it’s the precision pitching of Zach Plesac or the power hitting of Larry Bigbie, these players have left an indelible mark on the sport. As we celebrate their achievements, we also look forward to the next generation of Cardinals who will continue to make Ball State proud.