“Outs Collector”: No. 4 Auburn’s reliever Ryan Hetzler performs
In the high-stakes world of college baseball, where every pitch can alter the course of a season, Ryan Hetzler has emerged as a formidable force out of Auburn’s bullpen. As a sophomore right-handed pitcher, Hetzler’s journey from a promising freshman at Cal Baptist to a key asset for the Auburn Tigers is a testament to his dedication, skill, and adaptability.
Born on January 7, 2005, in Corona, California, Hetzler’s baseball journey began in the competitive high school leagues of Southern California. Attending both Arlington and Centennial High Schools, he showcased his pitching prowess, earning the title of Pitcher of the Year in 2022 and 2023, along with All-League honors in the same years. These accolades set the stage for his collegiate career.
In 2024, Hetzler joined Cal Baptist University, where he quickly made a name for himself. Appearing in 25 games, all in relief, he posted a 5-1 record with a 2.59 ERA. Impressively, he didn’t allow an earned run in 20 of those appearances. Leading the team with four saves, Hetzler struck out 38 batters over 41.2 innings. Notably, he delivered a season-high five strikeouts in a 3.0-inning outing against UC Davis and earned a win with a season-best 6.0 innings pitched against UTRGV.
Following his standout freshman year, Hetzler transferred to Auburn University, joining a Tigers team that had experienced a challenging 2024 season with a 27–26 overall record. Under the guidance of head coach Butch Thompson, the team aimed for a resurgence in the 2025 season.
Hetzler’s impact on the mound for Auburn has been nothing short of exceptional. As of May 30, 2025, he boasts a flawless 0.00 ERA over 6.0 innings pitched across six appearances. With one save to his name, Hetzler has allowed just one hit and one walk, while striking out eight batters. Opponents are managing a mere .053 batting average against him, highlighting his dominance and precision.
His performance has been instrumental in Auburn’s success, contributing to the team’s 38–18 overall record and a 17–13 mark in Southeastern Conference play. The Tigers’ resurgence, including a berth in the Auburn Regional, underscores the significance of Hetzler’s contributions.
Standing 5’11” and weighing 176 pounds, Hetzler combines a compact frame with explosive velocity and sharp breaking pitches. His ability to maintain composure under pressure, coupled with his strategic pitch selection, makes him a reliable option in high-leverage situations. His mental fortitude and adaptability on the mound are key factors in his success.
As the Auburn Tigers advance in postseason play, Ryan Hetzler’s role as a shutdown reliever will be pivotal. His journey from a promising freshman to a standout sophomore reliever exemplifies the impact of hard work, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in collegiate athletics. Fans and teammates alike eagerly anticipate Hetzler’s continued contributions as Auburn aims for a deep postseason run.
In the ever-evolving landscape of college baseball, Ryan Hetzler stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the unyielding spirit of competition.
