Since his 2024 season debut for Y-D two weeks ago, RJ Austin has exemplified true consistency at the plate with one or more hits in 10 out of the 12 games he has played so far. The Vanderbilt sophomore approaches the batter's box each game with an energetic stance and focused eyes — ready to take on anything that is thrown at him.
Hitting .341 this season, the Y-D returner has played multiple games at the top of the lineup. He has 14 hits so far, including five doubles and a home run. During Friday’s game in Orleans, he notched the first hit of the night for Y-D in the first inning, driving the ball straight up the middle and getting on base early in the first inning.
Austin said during his time with Y-D this season, he is focusing on working through some mechanics with his swing. While making adjustments, he continues to bring his competitiveness and determination to the plate.
“I’m mentally trying to win that one-on-one battle with the pitcher,” Austin said. “No matter what the outcome is for me, I stick with the same approach at every at-bat by keeping my swing nice and simple and not doing too much out there.”
In his two seasons with Vanderbilt, he played over 100 games and had close to 500 at-bats for the Commodores. He surpassed his number of hits from freshman year by 20 this past year and decreased his number of strikeouts by 10. His speed on the bases also shines through the numbers as he brought his stolen base count from four in his freshman year to 28 in his sophomore year.
The utility player not only harnesses his speed on the bases but in the outfield as well for Y-D. He has made multiple running catches for the team in left and center field and his quick arm has prevented runners from taking extra bases.
Whether in the batter’s box or on the field, it is evident from watching Austin play that he has a lot of love and passion for baseball. He said a big part of his admiration for the game came from his upbringing and family.
“All my family members played baseball. One of my big cousins played at Alabama and another was drafted by the Astros,” Austin said. “I grew up around the baseball field and the game. Baseball has always been in my blood and I play every game like it’s my last.”
Photo by Sophie Solarino
