Wolf Pack baseball freshman catcher dies – Reno Gazette Journal
Austin Gorrell, a freshman catcher on the Wolf Pack baseball team, died in the hours between Friday night and Saturday morning.
No cause of death was given, but the Wolf Pack announced in a news release that Gorrell had a previous known medical condition.
Gorrell, 19, from Riverside, Calif., joined Nevada in August after committing to the team last November. The 5-foot-10, 165-pound Gorrell starred at John W. North High before joining the Wolf Pack. Teammates and friends sent their condolences on social media Saturday morning.
“My heart hurts for my teammate and his family,” fellow Wolf Pack freshman Brandon Evans tweeted. “You were always so positive through this hard time. RIP Austin Gorrell. Love you buddy.”
Tweeted Wolf Pack football freshman quarterback Austin Kafentzis: “And to think I was with him less than 10 hours ago. Things won’t be the same without you man. R.I.P Austin Gorrell. You will be missed.”
As a senior at John W. North High, Gorrell hit .239 with two home runs in 46 at-bats. He was a highly regarded defensive catcher and was invited to played in the prestigious Perfect Game showcase circuit.
This is the second tragic loss of a current player for the Wolf Pack baseball program in the last decade. In April 2006, left-handed pitcher Steve Masten, an 18-year-old freshman and former standout at Spanish Springs High in Sparks, died as a result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
In a news release, the Wolf Pack extended their heartfelt condolences to Gorrell’s family and said grief counselors were available for Nevada students and staff. Information on services will be announced at a later date.
After the Nevada football team’s 35-17 win over New Mexico, running back Don Jackson dedicated the victory to the Wolf Pack baseball team.
“Proud of my guys tonight!!” Jackson tweeted. “That one was for @NevadaBaseball, prayers to you guys! Keep being strong! God bless. Thank you pack fans!! Prayers out to Austin Gorrell’s family and friends may that man rest in paradise!!”