After a promising freshman season, Marian University catcher Jacob Dill is stepping into a bigger role for the Knights in 2025, aiming to help lead the team on a deep postseason run.
As Marian battles through a competitive schedule, the sophomore is embracing lessons from his first year and preparing to make an even greater impact this spring.
“Transitioning to college ball took some time,” Dill said. “But just taking it day by day helped.”
Despite the adjustment period, Dill made his presence felt during his freshman campaign. He appeared in 21 games, starting 19 as catcher or designated hitter. He batted .263, collected 15 hits and 12 RBIs, and notched his first collegiate home run against Tougaloo College.
“There will be ups and downs throughout the season,” Dill said. “During the lows, you have to overcome them and know it’s okay to be in a ‘low’ situation. The team always gets through it.”
Determined to elevate his game, Dill spent the offseason refining his plate mechanics.
“One thing I specifically worked on was keeping my weight back and letting the ball travel through the zone because I have a habit of getting out in front,” Dill said.
Dill’s offseason efforts aim to build on his .368 slugging percentage and .438 on-base percentage from last season. His personal goal for 2025 is straightforward: “Just try to be the best teammate I can be on and off the field.”
With a year of experience under his belt, Dill is stepping into more of a leadership role, setting an example for younger players while continuing his development.
Marian is hungry for a return to the postseason after narrowly missing a conference title last year.
“The team’s mindset is to get back into the tournament and finish what we started,” Dill said.
Team chemistry has been a focus during the offseason. Players have strengthened their bond through off-field activities and simple time spent together.
“We plan on continuing to grow as a team by just having normal days where we do stuff together,” Dill said.
Dill also credits the coaching staff with making a lasting impact, both on and off the field.
“Since being on campus, the new coaching staff has taught me more about life than just baseball,” Dill said. “They’re preparing us for the real world.”
Although the team features veteran standouts, Dill believes leadership is shared across the roster.
“Everyone is a leader on this team in some way, and
just being around everyone has helped me improve my game,” Dill said.
The Knights opened their 2025 season strong with a 12-3 win over Middle Georgia State University and have shown flashes of dominance, including a 20-1 rout of Goshen College. Despite early struggles, including a 7-10 overall record and a 4-3 mark in conference play, Marian is currently riding a four-game win streak and gaining momentum.
As the Knights push toward the postseason, Dill remains focused on contributing both at the plate and behind it.
Beyond the field, Dill values the brotherhood that comes with being a student-athlete at Marian.
“One thing I love about being a student-athlete here is the connection I can build with my teammates and brothers,” Dill said. “Having class with them and then playing with them makes the experience special.”
With a balanced mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent, the Knights are poised for a successful 2025 season—and Dill is ready to play a key role in that journey.
