Berry Earns Dick Howser Trophy Semifinalist Recognition

DALLAS, Texas — Freshman designated hitter Jacob Berry added to his extensive list of accomplishments last Friday afternoon as he was named a semifinalist for the 2021 Dick Howser Trophy, the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association announced.

Berry is one of 42 semifinalists, the first Wildcat to make the semifinalist stage since Bobby Dalbec in 2015, and one of just three players representing the Pac-12 Conference in the running for the 34th edition of the trophy.

The Dick Howser Trophy, given in memory of the former Florida State University All-America shortstop and major league player and manager who died of brain cancer in 1987, is regarded by many as college baseball's most prestigious award. Criteria for consideration of the trophy include performance on the field, leadership, moral character, and courage, qualities that were exemplified by Dick Howser's life.

Through 52 games, Berry is hitting .381 with 46 runs scored, 14 doubles, five triples, 14 home runs, 62 RBI, a .716 slugging percentage, and a .471 on-base percentage. He currently lead the conference in RBI and ranks among the top five players on the circuit in nearly every statistical category.

Berry's 14 home runs are the most by an Arizona freshman since Shelley Duncan swatted 20 in 1999, while his eight long balls in Pac-12 play tie Duncan and current teammate Daniel Susac for the Arizona freshman conference record.

The Queen Creek, Arizona native has logged 23 multi-hit games and a team-leading 19 multi-RBI performances this year.

Finalists for the prestigious award will be announced on Thursday, June 10.

Berry and the Wildcats wrap up their regular season schedule with three home games against Dixie State this week. Game one on Thursday night is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. MST.