​MONROE – Carson Liedel joined Auburn University as a pitcher in November, but he did not get the chance to pitch at Auburn right away. The Michigan high school standout tore the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow while pitching for Monroe High on June 1, 2025, and he underwent Tommy John surgery on June 26.
Before his junior year even began, Liedel had already committed to Auburn, a decision that left him worried about what the future of his baseball career might hold. Yet there was a ray of hope. After the surgery, he received encouraging news from the Auburn coaches: such injuries, though serious, often lead to a stronger return, and the timing could allow him to recover fully before he arrived on campus.
The timing was not ideal for Monroe, however. Liedel could throw only a few innings in relief during his senior season. Despite the setback, he found other ways to contribute to the team. He earned a spot on the Michigan High School Baseball Coaches Association Division 1 All-State team by batting .500, scoring 57 runs, driving in 28, and belting 10 home runs, primarily playing at shortstop. The Monroe News sports staff named him Monroe County Region Player of the Year, and he led the All-Region team.
Monroe head coach Greg Depew was impressed by Liedel’s character and resilience. “Carson was a great teammate,” Depew said. “Being his senior year with a new coach, he didn’t have to buy in, but he did buy in. I’ve never seen anyone with a work ethic like his.” St. Mary Catholic Central coach Jared Janssen echoed that sentiment, saying Liedel “was by far the best player in the county.”
Liedel’s injury occurred just before the state tournament last season. “I threw four innings against Grosse Ile,” he recalled. “Everything was going well, but after I got the last kid out, something felt funny. When I went back out for the next inning, it felt like someone was pulling on my arm. I could still hit with it, but I couldn’t throw.” The UCL tear was diagnosed a few days later, and Liedel and his family weighed their options. While conservative treatment could allow healing, the odds of returning to a high level without surgery were not favorable, and surgery became the best choice.
The first six weeks after surgery were the hardest. Liedel wore a brace and sling, with his arm held at 90 degrees. He endured intense therapy as he began the long process of rebuilding strength and range of motion. Four months in, he could hold a baseball again for light tosses, a surreal milestone on the road to recovery. “You’ve got to be very delicate with it. You can’t overdo anything,” he said.
As Liedel recovered, he continued to contribute to Monroe in meaningful ways, even if he could not pitch. His leadership, perseverance, and commitment to the team became apparent to coaches and teammates alike. The journey has not been easy, but Liedel remains focused on a strong return to form and a future in which he can help Auburn compete at the highest level.