University of Vermont Athletics

Raymond B. Vescovi 1951 - Baseball

Ray Vescovi, a 1986 UVM Hall of Fame inductee, strung together three highly successful baseball campaigns as a top Catamount hitter between 1949 and 1951. His record for earning postseason awards was unparalleled, as he won All-State, All-Yankee Conference, and All-New England mention in each of his three years on the varsity.

Vescovi's junior season was probably his finest, as he hit a gritty .348 and drove in 18 runs. He also had 23 hits, and led Vermont in all three categories. He maintained his torrid pace throughout his senior year, leading the team by hitting .342. Though formal records were not maintained in the early 50s, Vescovi's junior and senior averages would place high on Vermont's all-time season ladder. He would also be among the leaders for career batting average.

Of equal importance was Vescovi's role as team leader. He was a rare two-year captain, serving the role along in his final two seasons. And he was the final captain to serve legendary head coach Larry Gardner (Hall of Fame '69), who retired as coach after Vescovi's senior year.

In 1950, Vescovi was a member of the Burlington Cardinals of the very competitive Northern League, which featured many top college and future professional players. He also played in the Vermont all-star game against a team comprised of American League all-stars. His UVM achievements did not go unnoticed; after his senior year Vescovi signed a contract with the Boston Red Sox, and he played for the team's AAA affiliate, Louisville, of the American Association.

Originally from New London, Conn., Vescovi served as a U.S. Army officer during the Korean conflict.