Player: Trevor Hafner - Ohio University.  

In his first games as a Bobcat, Hafner had a big weekend to help Ohio kick off the 2018 season with a four-game, series split at Rider. A transfer from Sinclair Community College, Hafner headed to the Mid-American Conference after batting .371 with eight home runs and 15 stolen bases as a freshman. Hafner showed no signs of slowing down at the Division I level, making an immediate impact, going 7-for-21 with four doubles and six RBI. Hafner is a product of Perrysburg High School, a two-time captain for the Yellow Jackets and a 2016 All-Ohio first team selection.
 

Pitcher: Kyle Nicolas - Ball State.

Nicolas' collegiate debut was an outing to remember. After finishing his prep career with a state title for Massillon Jackson, the Ball State staff has high expectations of Nicolas, penciling the freshman into the starting rotation for opening weekend. Nicolas rewarded head coach Rich Maloney with a brilliant five-inning start. Nicolas did not receive a decision in Ball State's 10-inning, 4-3 victory over Massachusetts-Lowell, but the right-handed did everything he could to help the Cardinals. Nicolas did not allow a run, struck out nine batters, and surrendered just one hit.