FEBRUARY 2023 5
snapshot
CLAIM TO FAME
The highly popular Step Up to the Plate
fundraiser hosted by the Virginia baseball
program returned in January to John Paul
Jones Arena after a three-year absence
created by the worldwide pandemic. The
event also serves as the induction cer-
emony for the UVA Baseball Hall of Fame.
This year's five-man class included in-
fielder Ernie Clement (2015-17), left-
handed pitcher Kyle Crockett (2011-13),
outfielder and left-handed pitcher Adam
Haseley (2015-17), outfielder Joe Hicks
(1951-53) and first baseman/outfielder
Pavin Smith (2015-17).
Established in the summer of 2017,
the Virginia Baseball Hall of Fame has
now recognized 36 former student-ath-
letes and coaches that span the 134
years of baseball at the University. Hall of
Fame plaques are on permanent display
at Disharoon Park on the right field line
concourse.
To be considered for Hall of Fame in-
duction, former student-athletes needed
to be five years removed from exhaus-
tion of college eligibility. Players and
coaches were selected based on acco-
lades earned as a player or coach while at
Virginia, distinguishing careers in amateur
or professional baseball and/or signifi-
cant contributions through work or service
made to the university.
Virginia will open its season Feb. 17 at a
tournament in Wilmington, N.C.
— Jim Daves
