BARNEGAT, NJ — Just months after signing his first professional contract, 22-year-old Nick Danbrowney, a standout pitcher from Barnegat, New Jersey, was killed Monday night in a car crash in North Carolina, ending a promising baseball career before it had truly begun.
Danbrowney had recently completed a record-setting career at Ramapo College in Mahwah, New Jersey, where he etched his name into the program’s history books by breaking the all-time career strikeout record. In late June, he joined the Bakersfield Train Robbers of the Pecos League, an independent professional baseball league, and quickly became a vital part of their pitching staff. His strong performances earned him a spot in the starting rotation as the Train Robbers surged to second place in their division.
The fatal accident occurred on Monday night.
Danbrowney, a 2021 graduate of Barnegat High School, had relocated to North Carolina following the season. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
“We’re numb,” said Bakersfield Manager Bill Rogan in a statement. “Nick was a terrific pitcher, but more than that, he was a gentleman. The whole team is devastated. We all loved him.”
David Aceron, manager of the Dublin Leprechauns, also in the Pecos League, said Danbrowney left a powerful impression on those around him. “Nick was an exceptional athlete who motivated others with his fierce competitive spirit,” Aceron said.
Ad: Save every day with Amazon Deals: Check out today's daily deals on Amazon.
Danbrowney earned his degree in Social Science at Ramapo and was known for his dedication on and off the field. He threw 230 2/3 innings during his college career, racking up 225 strikeouts with a 20-15 record and a 3.02 ERA. Former announcers and coaches took to social media this week to reflect on his impact, including a heartfelt post from Barnegat High School football coach Rob Covine, who remembered Danbrowney as a “very talented kid and great young man.”
He had signed with Bakersfield alongside college teammate Jack Martin, and the pair had bolstered the Train Robbers bullpen during a crucial stretch of the season.
Tributes have continued pouring in across platforms from teammates, coaches, friends, and fans stunned by the sudden loss of a player whose professional journey was just getting started.
Key Points
- Nick Danbrowney, 22, died Monday night in a car crash in North Carolina after completing his first season with the Bakersfield Train Robbers
- The Barnegat native set the career strikeout record at Ramapo College before going pro in June
- Teammates, coaches, and friends are mourning his sudden death, remembering him as a dedicated and talented athlete
A rising star on the mound, Nick Danbrowney’s life and baseball career were tragically cut short before his full potential could be realized.