Alright, y’all—let’s dive into the transfer happenings down in Jacksonville with the JU Dolphins and UNF Ospreys. You know, it’s getting rarer to see college athletes chill in one spot for their entire run. In this era of the transfer portal, loyalty’s like a rare Pokémon.
So right here, smack dab in the middle of mid-major chaos, you’ve got some die-hards sticking it out at Jacksonville University (JU) and the University of North Florida (UNF). Baseball, folks. It might take a backseat to the NIL Wild West we see in football and basketball, but it’s a game of heart and some tough choices nevertheless.
Over at JU, we’re talking about Blake DeLamielleure, a right fielder who’s been through the ups and downs—the thrill of a conference title, the pain of losing to hip injuries. Blake had plenty of reasons to head elsewhere, especially when he saw his buddy Justin Nadeau take his talents to Florida. But nope, Blake’s staying right where he started. Respect.
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Alongside Blake, you’ve got pitchers like Richard Long and Layton Perry holding down the fort for JU. They’re not just dealing on the mound; they’re doing it with a sense of brotherhood and unity you just can’t draft into. Long’s already in the talk for another ASUN Pitcher of the Year. Clutch.
Over at UNF, outfielder Drew Leinenbach and pitcher Clayton Boroski are doing their own thing, staying true to the Ospreys despite the musical chairs that is the transfer portal. Boroski sees himself as a “dying breed,” a guy who wants to honor his original commitment. In a world of rapid shifts and changing teams, that’s gold right there.
Of course, when we talk colleges, the inevitable comparisons come up—who’s staying and who’s heading to the big leagues within other college ranks. See, some folks like to test those waters. Like outfielder Alex Lodise, who’s absolutely smashing it at Florida State with a .440 average and a locker room full of hype.
But the hearts of many JU and UNF loyalists beat to a different rhythm. And their coaches—Chris Hayes at JU and Joe Mercadante at UNF—they’re grateful. Sure, some might say it’s like mid-majors are developing talent for the SEC and ACC, but Hayes and Mercadante aren’t bowing to the pressure. They’re sculpting teams the old-school way—through faith, long-term vision, and relationships more binding than any contract.
As May rolls around, both JU and UNF are prepping for the ASUN Tournament, eyes on more wins, more memories. Because whether you stay or you go, it’s about cherishing each moment. Sounds cliché, right? But, when that final inning approaches, it’s the lasting camaraderie and those epic plays you hold dear.
So keep an eye out for these seniors, folks. And remember, when life throws you a curveball, it’s how you swing back that counts. In baseball, as in life, the game’s not over until you’ve given it your all.
