Vanderbilt University has produced some of the finest talents in NCAA baseball history. The Commodores baseball team, known for its exceptional coaching and development, has been a stepping stone for many athletes who have gone on to excel in Major League Baseball (MLB). In this article, we will explore the careers of some of the best Vanderbilt Commodores baseball players of all time.
Sonny Gray
Sonny Gray is one of the most successful pitchers to have come out of Vanderbilt. Known for his powerful arm and competitive spirit, Gray was a standout player during his time with the Commodores. After his college career, he was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the first round of the 2011 MLB Draft. Gray quickly rose through the ranks and made his MLB debut in 2013. He has since become a reliable starter in the league, showcasing the skills he honed at Vanderbilt.
Harvey Hendrick
Harvey Hendrick is a name that resonates with long-time fans of Vanderbilt baseball. Playing in the early 20th century, Hendrick was known for his versatility on the field. He played multiple positions and was a crucial part of the team’s success during his tenure. Hendrick went on to have a successful MLB career, playing for various teams and leaving a mark with his consistent performance.
Pedro Alvarez
Pedro Alvarez is another exceptional talent from Vanderbilt who made a significant impact in NCAA baseball. As a powerful hitter, Alvarez was known for his ability to change the game with a single swing of the bat. His college career was marked by numerous accolades, and he was a key player in Vanderbilt’s success during his time there. Alvarez was drafted second overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2008 MLB Draft and went on to have a successful professional career.
Mike Willis
Mike Willis, a former Vanderbilt pitcher, is remembered for his impressive performances on the mound. His time with the Commodores was marked by his ability to dominate opposing hitters and his leadership on the team. Willis’s skills earned him a place in professional baseball, where he continued to showcase the talents he developed at Vanderbilt.
Dansby Swanson
Dansby Swanson is one of the more recent stars to emerge from the Vanderbilt baseball program. As a shortstop, Swanson was known for his defensive prowess and clutch hitting. He played a pivotal role in Vanderbilt’s success, helping lead the team to a national championship. Swanson was selected first overall in the 2015 MLB Draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks and has since become a key player for the Atlanta Braves.
David Price
David Price is perhaps one of the most famous Vanderbilt alumni in the baseball world. Known for his incredible pitching ability, Price was a standout player during his college days. His dominance on the mound helped propel Vanderbilt to new heights. Price was the first overall pick in the 2007 MLB Draft, selected by the Tampa Bay Rays. He has enjoyed a stellar MLB career, earning multiple All-Star selections and a Cy Young Award.
Bryan Reynolds
Bryan Reynolds is another name that stands out among Vanderbilt’s baseball greats. As an outfielder, Reynolds was known for his consistent hitting and strong defensive play. His contributions were vital to the team’s success during his college career. Reynolds was drafted by the San Francisco Giants and has since made a name for himself in the MLB with his impressive performances.
Ben Sanders
Ben Sanders is a historical figure in Vanderbilt baseball history. Playing in the late 19th century, Sanders was known for his versatility and skill on the field. He played multiple positions and was a key player for the Commodores during his time. Sanders’s contributions to the team set a foundation for future success.
Mike Yastrzemski
Mike Yastrzemski, grandson of Hall of Famer Carl Yastrzemski, carved out his own legacy at Vanderbilt. Known for his hitting ability and outfield skills, Mike was a crucial player for the Commodores. His college career set the stage for his professional journey, and he has continued to impress in the MLB with the San Francisco Giants.
Walker Buehler
Walker Buehler is a name that Vanderbilt fans hold in high regard. As a pitcher, Buehler was known for his powerful arm and competitive nature. He played a significant role in Vanderbilt’s success, helping the team win a national championship. Buehler was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers and has become one of the top pitchers in the league.
Rip Sewell
Rip Sewell is a legendary figure in Vanderbilt baseball history. Known for his unique pitching style, Sewell was a standout player during his time with the Commodores. His innovative approach to pitching earned him a successful MLB career, where he became famous for his “eephus pitch.”
Doc Cook
Doc Cook is another historical figure in the annals of Vanderbilt baseball. Playing in the early 20th century, Cook was known for his skill and versatility on the field. He was a key player for the Commodores and went on to have a successful career in professional baseball.
Scott Sanderson
Scott Sanderson was a standout pitcher during his time at Vanderbilt. Known for his strong arm and command on the mound, Sanderson was a vital part of the team’s success. He went on to have a long and successful MLB career, playing for several teams and earning All-Star selections.
Joey Cora
Joey Cora, known for his speed and defensive skills, was an important player for Vanderbilt during his college career. As an infielder, Cora was known for his ability to make game-changing plays. He went on to have a successful MLB career and has also made a name for himself as a coach.
Mike Minor
Mike Minor is another Vanderbilt pitcher who has made a significant impact in professional baseball. Known for his pitching ability and leadership, Minor was a key player for the Commodores. His success at Vanderbilt paved the way for his MLB career, where he has continued to excel.
In conclusion, Vanderbilt University has a rich history of producing top-tier baseball talent. These players have not only excelled at the collegiate level but have also made significant contributions to Major League Baseball. Their legacies continue to inspire future generations of Vanderbilt Commodores.