A New Chapter for Columbia’s Rising Star
Payton Soske, a rising senior on the Columbia baseball roster, put pen to paper on a free‑agent contract with the New York Yankees on July 13. The agreement sends the right‑hander to the Yankees’ spring training complex in Tampa, Florida, where he will undergo a brief evaluation before being placed on a minor‑league affiliate.
Soske’s collegiate trajectory has been marked by steady progression. He made his Columbia debut in 2024, appearing in three games and recording a single save, and in 2025 he became a staple in the bullpen, logging 12 outings and striking out 26 batters. His reliability earned him a spot in the Cape Cod Baseball League that summer, where he showcased his repertoire against top collegiate competition.
In the Cape Cod League, Soske pitched for the Harwich Mariners, fanning 14 opponents over ten innings. The experience not only refined his command but also attracted the attention of major‑league scouts, culminating in the Yankees’ decision to bring him into the organization.
Southern League Honors for Ex‑Lions Pitcher
The move also opens a pathway for former Lions pitcher Ben Wereski, who was acquired by the Cincinnati Reds after a stint with the Quad City River Bandits. Wereski’s first minor‑league appearance since 2024 was nothing short of spectacular: he tossed six consecutive no‑hit innings, punching out eight batters and demonstrating the sharpness that had characterized his college days.
His performance earned him Southern League Pitcher of the Week honors, a testament to the impact he is already making in the Reds’ system. The recognition underscores the broader narrative of Columbia alumni influencing professional baseball on multiple fronts.