Five Wayne State University baseball student-athletes have earned Academic All-District honors, underscoring their dual excellence in athletics and academics. Recognized for their achievements are Bennett Hitzelberger, Gavin Nash, Gabe Nazelli, Keegan Pulford-Thorpe, and Owen Tuccinardi. Hitzelberger, with a standout playing career and a solid 3.79 GPA, is a two-time honoree. The others also excelled in their respective positions, showcasing impressive stats and academic performance, thus highlighting the commitment of Wayne State athletes to both sports and studies.

By the Numbers
  • Bennett Hitzelberger achieved a .335 batting average with 53 runs scored and 22 stolen bases in 2026.
  • Owen Tuccinardi hit .309 with 13 home runs and 55 RBIs in 2026.
  • Keegan Pulford-Thorpe recorded a team-leading 64 strikeouts and a 5-2 record on the mound.
State of Play
  • All five student-athletes are being acknowledged for their combined athletic and academic excellence.
  • Bennett Hitzelberger has moved on to the national ballot for CSC Academic All-America honors.
What's Next

The national results for Academic All-America honors will be announced on June 23, featuring Hitzelberger as a key contender. The continued success of these student-athletes may encourage more academic recognition within the athletics program.

Bottom Line

The achievements of Wayne State's baseball players serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of balancing athletics and academics, reinforcing the value of dedication in both arenas.