Caden Aoki, a 23‑year‑old senior right‑hander, has become the centerpiece of Georgia’s pitching staff as the Bulldogs chase their first College World Series title since 2008.
After three seasons at USC, Aoki transferred to Athens and quickly earned the moniker "Doc" from head coach Wes Johnson, a tribute to his surgical precision on the mound.
A season of dominance
This year he posted a 9‑1 record with a 4.04 earned run average, added three saves and fanned 104 batters while walking only 27. The numbers have placed him among the nation’s most reliable closers.
His consistency earned him a second‑team spot on the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association All‑American list and a final nod for the Stopper of the Year Award, given to the country’s top relief pitcher.
A full‑circle moment
Aoki’s journey to Omaha is layered with narrative. He first appeared in the College World Series with Notre Dame in 2022, only to be sidelined by injury and forced to take a medical redshirt. Now, back in the same stage with Georgia, he describes the experience as a "full circle moment," a chance to rewrite a story that was cut short.
Coach Johnson believes Aoki’s poise under pressure will be crucial as the Bulldogs face tough competition in Omaha’s stadium. "He’s the kind of pitcher who can take the ball in the ninth and shut the door," Johnson said, emphasizing the trust placed in the senior.
Beyond the statistics, Aoki’s presence signals a broader resurgence for Georgia baseball. The program, which last reached the CWS in 2008, is back in the spotlight, and Aoki’s leadership both on and off the field is seen as a catalyst for the next generation of pitchers.