The Golden Spikes Award is given to the top college baseball player every season and, when the 25 semifinalists were officially announced, UNF Junior RHP Frank German had made the list.

“It’s pretty cool, it’s a big deal,” German said. “I didn’t even know that I was even in contention until yesterday. It was a little bit of a surprise, but it was a good surprise.”

The Ospreys’ ace, or best pitcher, led the ASUN in earned runs allowed (1.43) and ranked third in strikeouts.

This season, German even had the opportunity to toe the rubber against the defending the national champion, the Florida Gators, and threw five innings of one-run ball with six punchouts.

“That was a good experience, especially pitching at home. It was fun to pitch in front of that many people,” German told the Spinnaker.

With first-year manager Tim Parenton at the helm, German reportedly learned key lessons throughout the season, such as self-discipline.

“[Parenton] lets you be more independent,” German explained. “You got to come out here and get your work in, even if it’s not practice. It allows players to be looser and more free, and it’s more on you to get the job done.”

To vote for Frank German for the Golden Spikes Award, click here.

The winner of the Golden Spikes Award will be presented on June 28.

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