Former UNC pitcher and infielder Ben Casparius has been called up to the Los Angeles Dodgers after nearly three seasons in the minor leagues. Casparius, who played for the Diamond Heels in 2018 and 2019, later transferred to UConn to finish his college career. He was selected by the Dodgers in the fifth round of the 2021 MLB Draft, 162nd overall.
Casparius is remembered at UNC for his standout performance in the 2018 College World Series, where he drove in three runs to help secure an 8-6 victory over Oregon State—a rare feat for the Tar Heels.
During his freshman season in 2018, Casparius posted a 1-0 record, with a 1.69 ERA, one save, and nine strikeouts in 16 1/3 innings. He also contributed offensively, hitting .316 with 18 hits, including three doubles and a triple, and 15 RBIs.
However, Casparius faced challenges in 2019, finishing with a 4.41 ERA and a .179 batting average. Upon transferring to UConn, he found his stride, leading the Huskies and the Big East Conference with eight wins and 127 strikeouts.
Now with the Dodgers, Casparius has a chance to make his mark on one of baseball’s most storied franchises, despite his brief time with the Diamond Heels.
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