Bridgeport High School Turns Out Another DI Athlete as Kasen Baun to Play Baseball at Ohio University
By Jeff Toquinto on January 14, 2026 via Connect-Bridgeport.com
There have been plenty of four-year players for long-time Bridgeport baseball Coach Robert Shields. The number drops considerably when the list turns into four-year starters.
On Tuesday, inside Bridgeport High School, the latest of those soon-to-be-four-year-starters, Kasen Baun, signed to play Division I baseball at Ohio University. The Bobcats are in Athens, Ohio, and play in the Mid-American Conference.
“I really liked the coaches, the campus … and the coaches I really had a lot of trust in them,” said Baun. “It’s close to home so it’s really nice being right there and about an hour and 45 minutes away.”
Baun said he anticipates playing in the field and on the mound with the Bobcats. It will mimic his role with the Indians.
Shields said Baun plays shortstop and pitches for the Tribe. He is one of the top right-handed hurlers on the squad, along with providing veteran leadership.
“He’s just a gifted athlete,” said Shields. “He’s a strong kid that works hard and is very driven. He’s got good range and a strong arm, which is always an asset in baseball.”
Last year, he batted .301 for the Tribe. He had 34 hits, scored 26 runs, and drove in 19. In 113 at-bats, he struck out just 13 times, Shields said.
On the mound, Baun went 2-0 in 23 innings pitched. He had an ERA of 2.90 and struck out 22.
“He’s one of the guys we bring out against some of the top competition,” said Shields. “He throws hard and has a good slider.”
Shields, who has near 40 years in coaching, has witnessed his players making it all the way to the Major and Minor League levels of professional baseball. Most of them got a start in Division I, which Baun looks forward to.
“I’m excited, and I’m ready to go,” said Baun.
Baun had offers from schools in Maryland and Virginia, as well, he said. He said the recruiting process with Ohio University began during his junior year of high school. Baun also praised BHS for preparing him for the opportunity.
“(The school and team have) helped me a lot,” said Baun. “… Coach Shields and Coach (Iaquinta) have just helped a ton.”
Baun plans to study business and marketing in Athens.
Editor's Note: Top photo shows Baun with family, teammates, coaches, and friends during his signing Monday. Bottom photo shows Baun in action during the 2024 season. Please note that additional signing stories from yesterday's group of signings will appear in the days ahead on Connect-Bridgeport.
