Caden Bodine: Coastal Carolina’s Rising Star Shines Bright with Buster Posey Award and Gold Glove Honors
NEW ORLEANS – In a stunning display of talent and perseverance, Caden Bodine, the junior catcher for Coastal Carolina, has been recognized with the prestigious Buster Posey National Collegiate Catcher of the Year Award and the coveted ABCA/Rawlings Gold Glove. This remarkable achievement marks a historic moment for the Chanticleers, as Bodine is the first player from the program to receive these accolades.
A Season to Remember
Bodine’s journey to these honors culminated after he played a pivotal role in leading Coastal Carolina to the championship series of the Men’s College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska. As an All-Sun Belt First Team selection and the Most Outstanding Player at the Sun Belt Baseball Championship, Bodine’s exceptional skills were evident throughout the season.
Statistics That Speak Volumes
In a grueling season where he started 67 games—66 behind the plate and one as designated hitter—Bodine showcased not only his defensive prowess but also his offensive capabilities:
- Batting Average: .318
- On-Base Percentage: .454, leading the team
- Walks Drawn: 47
- Hit by Pitches: 17
Additionally, Bodine’s offensive repertoire included 24 extra-base hits—18 doubles, one triple, and five home runs—along with 42 RBIs and 55 runs scored.
A Defensive Dynamo
Behind the plate, Bodine was a force to be reckoned with. He successfully threw out 19 of 44 would-be base stealers, solidifying his reputation as one of the top defensive catchers in the nation:
- Career Record: Tied with 46 runners caught stealing
- Fielding Percentage: An impressive .998
Bodine’s defensive skills not only contributed to his individual accolades but also played a crucial role in Coastal Carolina’s success throughout the season.
Coastal Carolina’s Historic Run
The Chanticleers’ impressive season saw them record a program-best 56 wins, leading to an extraordinary 26-game winning streak. This streak included an impeccable postseason run, culminating in a championship battle against LSU. Coastal Carolina’s journey also featured:
- Sun Belt Regular-Season and Tournament Titles
- Conway Regional and Auburn Super Regional Championships
- A 3-0 run in Omaha, advancing to the championship series
Legacy in the Making
With Bodine behind the plate, Coastal Carolina made history by returning to the Men’s College World Series for the second time in program history, enhancing their reputation as a powerhouse in collegiate baseball. This also makes them the second team from the Sun Belt Conference, following Louisiana in 2000, to earn a place in the College World Series.
The Chanticleers not only shattered records but left a lasting impact on collegiate baseball. They carried the longest-ever winning streak into the Men’s College World Series, breaking a 77-year-old record previously held by USC since 1948.
Conclusion
Caden Bodine’s accolades—both the Buster Posey Award and the ABCA/Rawlings Gold Glove—are a testament to his remarkable skill and leadership on the field. As the Chanticleers concluded the 2025 season ranked No. 2 across all national polls, Bodine’s contributions have not only etched his name into Coastal Carolina’s history but have also set the stage for future generations of Chanticleer athletes.
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