CARY, N.C.- Vanderbilt third baseman Jason Esposito was added to the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team today, joining fellow Commodore Sonny Gray on the all-star summer squad.
He replaces Dick Howser Trophy winner Anthony Rendon (Rice) who suffered an ankle injury in Wednesday’s win over Korea.
"It is a dream come true to play for my country and honor our troops (some of whom I know) who fight for us overseas," said Esposito.
Esposito had a stellar sophomore campaign last spring for the Commodores batting .359 with 12 homers, 25 doubles and 64 RBI. He also stole 31 bases in 35 attempts and boasted a .455 on base percentage.
"Our selection committee discussed Jason throughout the process," said Eric Campbell, the General Manager of the National Team. "In Anthony Rendon’s absence, we feel Jason is the most deserving third baseman in the country. We love the way he plays the game and he is a great addition to this team."
Esposito was hitting .247 with a homer in 18 games for Orleans in the Cape Cod League before getting the call to join the USA squad.
Vanderbilt now has two players on the team with ace right-hander Sonny Gray in his second tour of duty with the team. He combined with two other pitchers to no-hit Korea on Wednesday night.Gray (1-0) retired 13 of the first 14 batters (walked third batter of game) he faced on his way to a nine-strikeout performance. Kyle Winkler (Texas Christian) relieved Gray in the seventh retiring six of the seven batters he faced before Noe Ramirez (Cal State Fullerton) shut the door on the Koreans picking up the save after striking out the side in the ninth.
"We are very happy that Team USA has added Espo to their roster," said Vanderbilt head coach Tim Corbin. "In my opinion, Jason is one of the best all-around players in the country and this honor is symbolic of that. Sonny and he will represent Vanderbilt very well." He will join the team in time for Saturday night’s game against Korea at Durham Bulls Athletic Park in Durham, N.C.
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Jason as a veteran and a friend, job well done. You will honor team U.S.A. as a gentleman that I know you are.Congats.
Mr. Pisani
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