## **Joseph Dzierwa: A Rising Star in Michigan State Baseball**
**EAST LANSING, Mich.** — The spotlight shines brightly on Michigan State baseball’s very own **Joseph Dzierwa**, who has recently been named a **semifinalist for the prestigious 2025 Dick Howser Trophy**. This accolade is awarded to the nation’s top collegiate player, recognized through a rigorous voting process facilitated by the **National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA)** and the **Dick Howser Trophy Committee**.
### **The Dick Howser Trophy: A Legacy of Excellence**
Since its inception in **1987**, the Dick Howser Trophy has celebrated collegiate baseball excellence, establishing itself as one of the most coveted honors. **2025 marks the 38th year** of this distinguished award, with the finalists set to be unveiled on **June 7**. Dzierwa’s recognition as a semifinalist places him among an elite group of players; he’s one of only **64** on the list and stands out as the **sole pitcher from the Big Ten Conference**.
### **Statistical Dominance on the Mound**
A native of **Haskins, Ohio**, Dzierwa enters this weekend’s action against Minnesota boasting remarkable stats:
– **94 strikeouts**, placing him **second in the Big Ten** and **33rd nationally**.
– An impressive **2.01 ERA**, which leads the Big Ten and ranks **sixth in the NCAA**.
– A **WHIP of 0.93**, also the best in the Big Ten and **14th in the nation**.
– Additionally, he ranks **fourth in the Big Ten** for strikeouts per nine innings, at an impressive **10.49**.
Dzierwa’s ability to limit opponents is equally impressive; he is **second in the league** and **33rd nationally** for fewest hits allowed per nine innings, with **6.25**.
### **Making History for the Spartans**
Dzierwa is no stranger to accolades. He has made history as the **first Spartan pitcher** to receive the **Big Ten Pitcher of the Week** award four times in a single season. His back-to-back honors (initially on **February 17** and **24**, then again on **May 5** and **12**) highlight his consistent performance and determination. Remarkably, no MSU player had secured back-to-back weekly honors prior to Dzierwa.
His achievements also align him with greats, as he becomes the first Big Ten pitcher to earn four weekly awards since **2009**.
### **Upcoming Games and Community Engagement**
As the Spartans gear up for an **intense three-game series against Minnesota** from **May 15-17**, the event also serves as a celebration for MSU Senior Weekend, presented by HAP. Here’s what you need to know:
– **Game Schedule**:
– Thursday: **6:02 p.m.**
– Saturday: **1:02 p.m.** (Regular-season finale)
– **Special Event**: Saturday is celebrated as **“517 Day,”** encouraging community involvement. Fans are urged to bring **non-expired canned food** items to support the local **Southside Community Kitchen**.
### **Get Your Tickets!**
Don’t miss your chance to catch Dzierwa and the Spartans in action! Michigan State baseball tickets are available online at [MSU Spartans Tickets](https://msuspartans.evenue.net), or you can reach out to the **Spartan Ticket Office** at **517-355-1610** or via email at **[email protected]** for further information.
### **Follow the Action**
Stay updated with any schedule changes and follow this exhilarating weekend’s action through **MSUSpartans.com** and on Twitter at **@MSUBaseball**. You can also find *“Watch Live,” “Listen Live,” and “Live Stats”* links to keep track of the games.
**Support Joseph Dzierwa** and the entire MSU baseball team as they aim for glory this season!
