Salt Lake City—Micah Ashman, a fourth-year junior reliever, became the second player from the University of Utah to be drafted into the MLB in 2024, after being chosen by the Detroit Tigers in the 11th round.
Ashman, who hails from Sandy, Utah, has left an indelible mark on Utah baseball as the program’s all-time leader in saves, a title he solidified with 20 saves over his collegiate career. His selection by the Tigers with the 326th overall pick in the MLB First-Year Player Draft underscores his standing as a highly regarded prospect known for his prowess on the mound.
During his junior season, Ashman made 24 appearances and achieved a career-high of 11 saves, contributing significantly to Utah’s bullpen. His pitching repertoire, highlighted by a 3.08 ERA and an impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio, showcased his effectiveness in pressure situations, making him a key asset for the Utes.
Standing tall at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing 195 pounds, Ashman’s journey to Utah University began in 2022, following a successful high school career at Jordan High School, where he excelled in both baseball and basketball. His athletic versatility and competitive spirit were evident early on, culminating in state championship success in baseball during his freshman year and a prominent role in the basketball state finals as a sophomore.
Teammates and opponents alike have recognized Ashman’s dedication and impact on the field. Senior centerfielder Kai Roberts, who competed against Ashman in high school basketball, praised his teammate’s tenacity and performance, emphasizing Ashman’s ability to command attention whenever he took the mound.
Ashman’s collegiate career trajectory saw him swiftly establish himself as a reliable reliever for the Utes, transitioning into the role of closer and earning accolades such as Pac-12 All-Conference honors. His standout sophomore season, where he recorded nine saves, placed him among the top closers in the Pac-12 conference and garnered attention on the national stage.
Throughout his time at Utah, Ashman’s consistent performance and strategic pitching contributed significantly to the team’s success. His ability to finish games effectively, demonstrated by his high number of appearances and games finished, underscored his reliability and importance within the Utes’ pitching rotation.
Looking ahead, Ashman’s selection by the Detroit Tigers marks a pivotal moment in his baseball career as he prepares to transition from collegiate competition to the professional ranks. His journey from high school standout to collegiate record-setter reflects not only his athletic prowess but also his resilience and commitment to excellence in sports.
As Ashman embarks on the next chapter of his baseball journey with the Detroit Tigers, he carries with him the lessons and achievements from his time at Utah University. His success story serves as a testament to the dedication of athletes who strive to excel both academically and athletically while making a lasting impact on their respective sports programs.
In conclusion, Micah Ashman’s selection by the Detroit Tigers in the 2024 MLB Draft represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. His journey from a talented high school athlete to an accomplished collegiate closer underscores his potential to make significant contributions to professional baseball, showcasing his talent and determination to succeed at every level of the game.