UMass Lowell Sophomore Excels in Baseball and Hockey

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The story of UMass Lowell sophomore Rowan Masse highlights the benefits of cross-training and participating in multiple sports. Masse, who impressed with a .235 batting average, 25 RBIs, and a collegiate home run in the 2025 season, has a background steeped in hockey, earning multiple All-State and All-Conference honors. Experts suggest that a broader athletic foundation can foster more well-rounded, resilient athletes, and Masse's hockey skills have likely contributed to his agility, hand-eye coordination, and mental toughness - all valuable assets in baseball.

Why it matters

The trend of early sports specialization has been questioned, with research suggesting that athletes who specialize early are at a higher risk of overuse injuries. Masse's story offers a compelling counter-narrative, showcasing the potential benefits of cross-training and participating in multiple sports. This approach is gaining recognition among college coaches, who are actively seeking athletes with diverse athletic backgrounds.

The details

Masse's background isn't solely baseball; it's steeped in hockey, where he earned multiple All-State and All-Conference honors. This dual-sport proficiency isn't an anomaly – it's a potential trend with significant implications for athletic development. Hockey demands explosive power, quick decision-making, and spatial awareness, all of which translate seamlessly to baseball skills such as tracking a fly ball, reacting to a pitch, or making a split-second throw.

• Masse had an impressive 2025 season, batting .235 with 25 RBIs and a collegiate home run.
• Masse previously played hockey, earning multiple All-State and All-Conference honors.