The Northeast Conference (NEC) tabbed UMES right-handed-pitcher Jonah Stepner as the conference pitcher of the week for the week of March 3, 2025. 

In the Hawks' NEC opening series against Delaware State, Stepner threw a complete game shutout. The 6'4 righty threw an impressive nine innings scoreless with a season-high eight strikeouts, showcasing elite command on the mound.

"Overall, it was a very good team win," said Jonah Stepner triumphantly after the win. "The defense played well behind me, and the bats woke up in the eighth inning. I felt really good on the mound. I had all my pitches working and was able to attack early and get going."

 Jonah Stepner's complete game was the first complete game for UMES baseball since April 7, 2023 when Noah Covington threw nine innings for the Hawks without giving up a single earned run in a win over Coppin State, 5-1. In addition, this is the first shutout pitched by UMES since May 6, 2022 when the Hawks defeated the Norfolk State Spartans 3-0 at Perdue Stadium in Salisbury.

"We are a family and we are well connected as a team," shared Stepner confidently. "Everyone has each other's back. I can go out there for nine innings, like I did, and know that my defense is going to have my back."

Jonah Stepner becomes the first UMES Hawk to be named NEC Pitcher of the Week in 2025. Stepner joins first baseman Diego Aponte as Maryland Eastern Shore baseball players that have earned conference player of the week honors. Stepner and the Hawks are back in action on Friday against Le Moyne at 3 PM.

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