KENNESAW, Ga. - Former Kennesaw State baseball players Luke Cooper and
Halton Hardy have signed with Major League Baseball organizations, joining the Los Angeles Angels and Minnesota Twins, respectively.
Cooper, a left-handed pitcher, signed with the Angels on May 20 following two successful seasons with the Pioneer League's Glacier Range Riders. Across 71 appearances, he posted a 5.09 ERA with a 3-4 record, four saves and 107 strikeouts. The Gainesville, Ga., native spent three seasons at Kennesaw State from 2022-24, appearing in 35 games out of the bullpen. He finished his collegiate career with a 5-3 record, one save and 55 strikeouts.
Hardy joined the Twins organization on June 5 after pitching for the Gastonia Ghost Peppers of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. The right-hander recorded 23 strikeouts against just four walks in 21.0 innings of work. During his two seasons in Black and Gold, Hardy appeared in 34 games and compiled a 2-0 record with a 3.62 ERA.
Following the signings, Cooper was assigned to High-A Tri-City, while Hardy began his professional career with the Twins' Rookie-level affiliate, the FCL Twins.
With the additions of Cooper and Hardy, Kennesaw State now has seven former players in Major League organizations. The group includes current Washington Nationals reliever Richard Lovelady as well as minor leaguers Blake Aita,
Braden Osbolt, Tyler Tolve and Blake Wehunt.
The Champions Fund
The Champions Fund is a newly created, 100% tax deductible, philanthropic opportunity to contribute strategic revenue to Kennesaw State Athletics, with the goal of strengthening our ability to recruit and retain top-tier talent in this new era of collegiate athletics. Contributions to the Champions Fund will help aid in funding student-athlete recruitment and retention, as well as helping the Owls provide competitive excellence through investments in coaching, travel and facilities. The fund will also give an elevated student-athlete experience, including enhanced academic, nutrition, wellness and leadership programs. Donate to the Champions Fund here and help us support our Kennesaw State Owls.
