How is the Rutgers community honoring the life and legacy of Mike Higgins?
The Rutgers baseball community is grieving the loss of one of its most impactful members, Mike Higgins. A former All-American, team captain, and four-year letterwinner from 1990 to 1993, Higgins passed away over the weekend at the age of 54. Known for his excellence both on and off the field, he played a key role in shaping one of the most successful periods in Scarlet Knights baseball history.
A Record-Setting Scarlet Knight
Higgins’ time at Rutgers culminated in a standout 1993 season, when he was named an ABCA All-American after delivering one of the best performances in program history. That year, he posted a .370 batting average with nine home runs and set a then-school record with 56 RBIs. Known for his sharp eye at the plate, he also recorded 39 walks and 20 doubles—both ranking second all-time in Rutgers history at the time of his graduation.
Beyond the impressive statistics, Higgins was the heartbeat of the Rutgers baseball team. As captain, he earned deep respect for his leadership, composure, and ability to deliver in crucial moments. Teammates recall him as a fierce competitor whose steady presence and determination set the standard for everyone around him.
Champion and Team Leader
Higgins’ four-year tenure aligned with one of the most successful stretches in Rutgers baseball history. During his time, the Scarlet Knights were a dominant force in the Atlantic 10 Conference, securing three Atlantic 10 Tournament titles and three consecutive regular-season East Division championships.
The highlight came in 1993, when Rutgers won the outright Atlantic 10 Championship — a defining moment that cemented Higgins’ legacy as both a leader and a champion.
He also played a vital role in guiding the Scarlet Knights to three NCAA Regional appearances: the 1990 East Regional in Connecticut — where Rutgers defeated UConn, Maine, North Carolina, and Georgia — followed by the 1991 Central Regional in Texas and the 1993 Mid-Atlantic Regional in Tennessee. Each appearance marked another step forward for the program, with Higgins at the forefront of its success.
Professional Career and Family Legacy
Higgins’ abilities were recognized beyond the college ranks when the Colorado Rockies selected him in the 22nd round of the 1993 MLB Draft. He went on to play four seasons of professional baseball, bringing the same determination and passion that had defined his collegiate career.
Off the diamond, Higgins devoted himself to his family and community. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Lori, his daughter, Ashley, and his son, Mike, who continued the family’s Rutgers legacy as a member of the Scarlet Knights football team.
As Rutgers mourns this profound loss, the university honors Mike Higgins not only for his records and championships, but for the integrity, leadership, and spirit that embodied what it means to be a Scarlet Knight. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
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