Holy Cross Athletics

A native of New Jersey, Hal Deitz became the top starting pitcher for the Crusaders in 1957, compiling an 8-1 record as Holy Cross went 16-3 overall and ranked second in New England.

The team continued its winning ways in 1958 with a 13-4 regular season record, during which Deitz went 6-1. Holy Cross went on to win the East Regional, with Deitz winning two games in two days over Colby and Connecticut to qualify for the College World Series at Omaha, Neb.

At the series, Dietz led the Crusaders to 3-0 victory over Southern California, marking the only time all season the eventual national champions were shut out. Holy Cross went on to finish third in the nation, its second-highest ranking behind only the 1952 national championship team.

For his efforts, Dietz was selected to the All-World Series team and was also chosen first team All-New England.

He finished his career with a 17-3 record and a 1.98 earned run average, the third-lowest mark in school history at the time of his graduation.

At the conclusion of the 1958 season, Deitz signed a professional contract with the St. Louis Cardinals organization.