In the world of college baseball, true two-way players are a rare breed. The physical and mental demands of excelling both on the mound and at the plate make them modern-day unicorns. For the Dakota Wesleyan University Tigers, however, they have not one, but two such standouts powering their season: senior leaders Dexter Payne and Caleb Meyers.
These aren't just players filling spots; they are the engine of the team. Embracing a grueling routine that requires elite discipline and focus, Payne and Meyers have turned their dual roles into a competitive advantage for DWU, producing results in every facet of the game.
For Dexter Payne, a senior captain from Sioux Falls, this journey has been about constant readiness. "I learned how to just always be ready, show up every day, and give it my 100%," Payne said, reflecting on his evolution from a relief pitcher into a complete two-way force. That mindset has paid off spectacularly this season.
On the mound, Payne has been a rock-solid starter, boasting a 2-1 record with a sharp 3.19 ERA and 31 strikeouts over 31 innings, a performance that earned him GPAC Pitcher of the Week honors. But he doesn't stop there. Stepping into the batter's box, he leads the Tigers with 24 RBIs and is a constant threat, ranking near the top in hits, doubles, and home runs. At first base, his defensive reliability is unmatched, with a team-high 167 putouts.
His teammate, Caleb Meyers, has been mastering this balancing act since his freshman year. The Farmington, Minnesota native has refined the art of splitting his focus, dedicating time to hitting and his duties in right field while finding a way to "lock it in" when he takes the hill as a pitcher.
That focus has made him the Tigers' offensive catalyst. Meyers leads the team across the board with a .308 batting average, a .547 slugging percentage, and 36 hits. His power is evident, with a team-best 12 doubles and 18 extra-base hits, consistently setting the tone for the DWU lineup.
Together, Payne and Meyers represent the ultimate in versatility and toughness. Their ability to impact a game in multiple ways is a testament to their work ethic and a thrilling blueprint for what a complete baseball player can be. For fans and aspiring athletes alike, they show that with the right mindset, you can excel anywhere on the diamond.