USC Baseball Star Ethan Hedges Takes Business Skills to MLB
The USC Trojans baseball team has made a remarkable return, achieving a 30-win season and securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in a decade. Among the standout players is Ethan Hedges, who not only excels on the field but is also pursuing a degree at the Marshall School of Business. Selected as the 77th overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft by the Colorado Rockies, Hedges embodies the dual commitment to athletics and academics that characterizes the team.
Hedges, an All-American second-team selection, is known for his resilience and versatility. While primarily a career infielder, he took on the challenge of pitching during his college years, all while managing a full course load at USC Marshall. “That’s the beauty of USC — it’s not supposed to be easy. Nothing ever worth doing is easy,” Hedges remarked. His determination reflects a philosophy that values both academic and athletic excellence, a sentiment echoed throughout the baseball program.
For Hedges, choosing USC was not just about baseball; it was about finding the right educational environment. He considered several Ivy League institutions but ultimately recognized the unique opportunities offered by USC. “Academics was a big part of my college decision,” he stated. “When USC came into the picture, it was clear that was the choice.” Hedges acknowledges that he arrived at USC without a guaranteed path to professional baseball, and sought a degree that would provide the foundation for life after sports.
The culture within the USC baseball team emphasizes academic achievement as much as athletic performance. Hedges noted, “We think that grades are a reflection of you as a person and your dedication to anything that you do.” This philosophy is reinforced by head coach Andy Stankiewicz, who encourages players to apply the same level of effort in academics as they do in sports.
With a growing number of teammates also enrolling at the Marshall School, Hedges feels supported in balancing the demands of school and sports. Over a dozen players have chosen to pursue business degrees, recognizing Marshall as one of the top business schools in the nation. Hedges explained that the school offers connections and opportunities that can significantly enhance their futures.
As the season progressed, Hedges accepted a new challenge by adding pitching to his repertoire. After two years of advocating for the opportunity, he finally got the chance when the team faced a shortage of pitchers. The results were impressive: Hedges recorded a 2.40 ERA and finished second in the Big Ten in saves. His performance at the plate also peaked, achieving career highs in batting average, hits, home runs, RBIs, and slugging percentage. These accomplishments earned him a spot on the All-Big-Ten first team and recognition as one of five finalists for the prestigious John Olerud Two-Way Player of the Year Award.
On July 13, Hedges realized his childhood dream when the Colorado Rockies selected him in the third round of the MLB Draft. “It is everything I ever dreamed of as a kid,” he said, reflecting on his journey from playing whiffle ball at seven years old to standing on the brink of a professional career. “It’s attributed to all the work I’ve put in throughout all of these years, and I’m ready to keep going.”
As Hedges prepares for the challenges of the minor league system, he believes his work ethic will set him apart from his peers. “Throughout baseball and throughout my academics at USC, I’ve learned how to have a work ethic,” he noted. This commitment to excellence, both on and off the field, positions Hedges for a successful transition into the professional realm while continuing to honor the education he received at USC Marshall.
Ultimately, Hedges’ story serves as an inspiring example of how dedication to both sports and academics can pave the way for a successful future, illustrating that the pursuit of excellence knows no boundaries.
