Chasing Greatness: J.D. Urso of the University of Tampa Aims for a Historic Title in His Final Season

Joe Urso has transformed the University of Tampa baseball team into a top-tier Division II program. The Spartans, reigning national champions, consistently attract talented players each season.

This season, they continue that trend, welcoming a fresh batch of transfers and recruits. One standout among them is J.D. Urso, Joe’s son. After spending a year with the University of Miami in the ACC, he returns to play for the Spartans in what may be his final season.

“This is probably my last year playing baseball,” J.D. shared. “I wanted to come back and take the field with my dad. It feels right to wear the Spartans red again.”

Having grown up in the UT program, J.D. always dreamed of playing for the Spartans. However, he faced challenges early on. Joe recognized that J.D. needed to develop more physically before competing at this high level, saying, “He was just not strong enough for this stage.”

J.D. considered attending a junior college and had committed to St. Petersburg College at one point but quickly realized he wanted to be part of the Spartans. His upbringing around the field made it clear where his heart belonged.

He joined the UT team in 2020 but faced setbacks due to the pandemic. Despite appearing in only a few games that season, he showed promise on the Junior Varsity team, hitting .273 with six RBIs.

Early on, J.D. made strategic decisions to advance his career. He transferred from Tampa Prep to Plant High School, where he performed under the watchful eye of scouts, especially with the pressure of playing alongside future MLB players. He swiftly became a key player, even winning MVP honors in his senior year.

After a successful summer with a local league team, J.D. excelled in his sophomore year, boasting a .325 batting average. His performance earned him a spot in the prestigious Cape Cod Baseball League, which he describes as a turning point in his development as a player.

Although he faced injuries in 2023, J.D. left Tampa to play at Miami, where he appeared in 39 games but struggled with a .218 batting average while adapting to a new role.

Meanwhile, his father Joe assembled another strong squad, determined to repeat the success of past seasons. The Spartans have faced challenges, losing some key players, but they remain competitive, with J.D. focusing on contributing wherever he can.

With the season underway, J.D. is motivated to help the Spartans secure their tenth national title. He dreams of celebrating with teammates, saying, “I want to dogpile at the end of the season in Cary, North Carolina. That would mean a lot.”