Johnnie Baseball Monthly | March 2026

From the Dugout
“Championship Effort”

Dear Johnnie Baseball Family and Friends,

As we move into March, there’s a different level of focus in our dugout. This is the moment we were waiting for…to finally put on the game jersey and compete against someone else.

What I love most about this group is their consistency. Whether it’s a lift, a practice in the dome or a long travel day, they continue to show up for each other.

We’re learning a lot about ourselves early in this season. There have been great moments, teaching moments, and opportunities to respond. That’s the beauty of baseball. You must show up ready to compete again.

We’re excited about where this team can go.

Go Johnnies!

Scott Lieser
Head Baseball Coach, Saint John’s University
Slieser@csbsju.edu
https://gojohnnies.com/sports/baseball

⚾ Inside the Program

March means the season is underway, and with that comes growth. Early competition always reveals areas to sharpen. We opened against a historically solid Beuna Vista team for a three-game series down in Kansas. We dropped the first game but ended up winning the next two. The plan wasn’t to lose a game, but I’m glad it wasn’t that last one. Makes for a more enjoyable ride home. Check our website listed above to see complete box scores.

One of the highlights of the early trips has been the time spent together off the field. Team dinners, bus rides, and hotel stays are a fun way to strengthen the team’s camaraderie.

We’re excited to continue building momentum as we move into conference play. Our first home games this season open the MIAC schedule with a doubleheader against St. Mary’s at 1p.m. on Saturday, March 28. Spring weather dictates when we play and when we have make-ups. Our website will keep you updated. Come see us when you can!

🎤 Senior Spotlight

Reed Marquardt — Infielder, Finance Major

Where are you from, and what high school did you attend?
I’m from Lindstrom, Minnesota, and I attended Chisago Lakes High School.

What made you choose Saint John’s University and Johnnie Baseball?
I had really close high school and family friends that attended Saint John’s, so I spent a lot of time on campus before I became a student. I always loved the campus and the people I met. After learning more about the academic side and wanting to play college baseball, Saint John’s was 100% the best fit for me. The school, the people, the program — I knew this was a place where I could have success in different aspects of my life.

What does being a part of Johnnie Baseball mean to you?
It’s really cool to be part of such a reputable group of guys — both current and former players. It’s a great network and an amazing experience. It’s special to be able to talk to former players about their experiences and share stories like we played together.

How has Johnnie Baseball helped you grow as a person?
It’s taught me discipline and how to be a good teammate. It takes a lot to play for a well-regarded program. You have to put in the work and do the right things consistently. I’ve been lucky to play with phenomenal players, but what I’ve learned most from them is how important it is to be a great teammate — on and off the field.

How do you lead as a senior?
I’m not much of a vocal leader, so I try to lead by example. I think my strength is my energy. I love to joke around and make guys laugh. My hope is that it creates a relaxed environment and reminds everyone that while we’re here to win, it’s still a game. We get to hang out every day. That’s the best part.

What are your goals for your final season?
It’s about time the Johnnies bring home some hardware. I also want to leave an impact through the energy and positivity I try to bring every day.

What’s next after graduation?
I’m searching for a career in finance somewhere in Minnesota. I’d like to get into financial advising or wealth management. At some point, I’d also love to get into coaching and stay connected to the game.

Advice for younger players?
It’s rare for freshmen to play immediately at the college level. It takes time and work. Put the work in and be disciplined. And enjoy your teammates — it’s the best part of the experience.

What will you miss most?
The guys. It’s like guaranteed time every single day to hang out with your best friends. It totally rules.

Hidden talent or hobby?
I’ve taken up golf the last two years. It’s fun — but frustrating. I also enjoy minimal photography, especially sunrises and sunsets. I’ve got a large collection in my camera roll.

🧢 Where Are They Now?

Former Johnnie (2016–2019) Bennett Wiggins ‘19

What years did you play and what position?
I played four years from 2016–2019. I came in as an infielder but developed into a pitcher.

Favorite memories?
Two core memories stand out:

The first was beating St. Thomas 2–1 at CHS Field in 2018 to end the Tommies’ season and advance to the MIAC Tournament Final. Aaron Kloeppner made one of the best catches I’ve ever seen against the left field fence.

The second was Tommy Auger’s unforgettable nine-inning complete game to defeat Gustavus in Game 2 of the 2019 MIAC Tournament Final. In the first inning, he took a hard line drive off the shin, limped after the ball, and still recorded the out. That set the tone for one of the gutsiest performances I’ve witnessed, completing our run through the loser’s bracket and punching our ticket to Regionals.

Life after graduation?
As an Economics major, I had multiple career paths available. I started with a supply chain internship at a medical device company, then joined Target as an inventory analyst. After five years at Target, I moved to Everyday Dose, a fast-growing coffee startup, where I serve as a retail account manager.

Is baseball still part of your life?
I still play town ball for St. Anthony, Minnesota. Town ball is a great way to continue playing and stay connected to the game.

What does being a Johnnie Baseball alum mean to you?
Winning the MIAC in 2018 and advancing to Regionals in 2019 are accomplishments I’ll always be proud of. But what made Johnnie Baseball special were the relationships and life lessons.

I’m deeply grateful to Coach Jerry Haugen for the opportunity. SJU Baseball shaped far more than my college experience — it helped shape who I am. I met some of my best friends and learned discipline, resilience, and accountability. Those lessons carry into my career and everyday life. I’ll always be thankful for the opportunity to wear the Johnnie uniform.

📸 Johnnies in Action

Follow us on social media:
Instagram – @sjubaseball
X (Twitter) – @SJU_Baseball
Facebook – @SJU Baseball

📬 Spread the Word

Feel free to forward this blog to anyone who might want to join the Johnnie Baseball family! By the way, two more podcasts in our Home Field Advantage series are published. You may click here Home Field Advantage Podcast for features on Justin Rost, Johnnie strength and conditioning coordinator, and Brace Hemmelgarn ’12, Minnesota Twins’ manager of content and photography (Think team yearbooks, print design, uniform design, Topps baseball card photos). After hearing their stories and some comments from our coaches, you will want to pass along the link.

Coach’s Final Word

This coming weekend we head down to Simpson College for a three-game series. The following weekend we will head to Central Florda over spring break for eight varsity games and two varsity reserve games. We are fortunate to have the all-turf field here at Becker Park. We’ve been able to practice outside before heading south.

Our message to the team remains simple: bring a championship effort in everything you do — in the classroom, in the weight room, in practice, on the bus, and between the lines.

We’re building. We’re learning. And we’re competing.

As always, thank you for supporting Johnnie Baseball. We appreciate everyone who follows along, shows up, and stays connected to our program.

Go Johnnies! ⚾