Westfield baseball standout Joshua Wagner has found a new home to continue his academic and athletic career.
Wagner announced on X (formerly Twitter) last week that he has committed to play Division I baseball for Merrimack College upon graduation. This has been a moment in the making for Wagner. So for his vision to finally become a reality is a dream come true.
“It has always been a dream of mine to play Division I baseball,” Wagner said. “Ever since I was a little kid, I would watch these big-time schools and dream of playing for them. And that has stuck with me ever since I started playing the game.
“I do have a few of my friends at Merrimack. But I think the main thing that made my decision a little easier was the campus there. I really enjoyed it, and it definitely made the decision a lot easier for me.”
This spring will mark Wagner’s fourth and final season with the Bombers. And during his memorable tenure, Wagner has accumulated 136 strikeouts and has allowed 46 earned runs in 121 combined innings pitched thus far. On the offensive side, meanwhile, the senior has recorded 31 combined hits and 21 RBIs in 115 plate appearances thus far.
But aside from those impressive figures, Wagner has also been a vocal leader who helped guide Westfield to the D-II state semifinals against Plymouth North in 2024. That said, it’s no wonder that Wagner has been named a Super 7 and First-Team All-Western Mass. selection for two consecutive years.
But sometimes, those numbers don’t tell the complete story.
“I think a few things that separate me from some other athletes is my mentality,” he said. “I go into every game confident and not let anything get in the way, and always keep a positive mindset toward the game. And also, I think my leadership is a big part of my game. I am also trying to bring up my teammates at all times and make sure they stay positive as well.”
Wagner also wanted to commemorate some familiar individuals who helped set this dream into motion. The senior understands that most of these opportunities are made possible by hard work and dedication in the weight room and on-the-field effort.
But Wagner also echoed the importance of his village. Because sometimes, those efforts and sacrifices alone are the essential difference makers when it comes to achieving moments like this.
“A few people I would like to thank are my parents,” Wagner said. “Because without them, I am not the person I am today. And even being able to go to all of these events without them and giving me a ride, none of this would be possible. I would also like to thank my coaches from my travel team (Powerhouse Bulldogs), who also got me to where I am today.”
During his final high school season, though, Wagner has remained hopeful that Westfield can raise its first regional crown since 2024 and then make one last deep run in the state postseason together.
“My hope for my final season is to compete at the farthest point in MIAA baseball,” Wagner said. “A majority of the guys that are still on the team, including myself, have won a Western Mass. championship and have made it to the Final Four. We will have such a positive and strong squad this year, so the goal is to win the state championship.”
