FAIRFAX, VA. – George Mason Athletics plans to honor the life of former George Mason baseball pitcher Sang Ho Baek throughout the 2022 Patriots baseball season. Baek, a native of Salisbury, Md., passed away in June.  He was 20 years old. 

"Sang will always share a special place in our hearts," Assistant Vice President/Director of Athletics Brad Edwards said. "Sang, his teammates, and coaches grew very close in a short period of time. He had tremendous commitment, passion, love for his family, community, and his George Mason baseball teammates. This season, we will honor and celebrate Sang's life and the positive impact he made as a student at George Mason." 

The Patriots will wear patches on their jerseys during the 2022 season to celebrate the life of Sang Ho Baek. His No. 44 uniform will be with the baseball team all season displayed in the dugout during games. 

On Saturday, March 19, members of the baseball team, the Mason Athletic department, members of the University community, Baek's parents Seong Han Baek and En Young Lee, along with his sister Sun Ho, will take part in an honorary pre-game ceremony. A White Dogwood Tree chosen by the family will be planted near Spuhler Field with a plaque that will memorialize Baek as a member of the baseball team forever.  

"Sang is missed and remembered every day by his George Mason Baseball Family," said Head Coach Bill Brown. "Sang touched each of us who had the pleasure of knowing him in a unique way that none of us will ever forget. In his memory we will wear a patch on our uniforms bearing his number, 44, and his uniform will be with us every game displayed in our dugout. The ceremony will serve as a lasting tribute to Sang for all to see as they walk into Spuhler Stadium and signify his place as a member of Mason Baseball forever."  

Baek completed his freshman season with the Patriots.  He appeared in seven games and made his collegiate debut against UMBC at Spuhler Field on March 12.