When Joe Caplan graduated from the University of Miami School of Education and Human Development this past spring, he packed more than just a diploma in his suitcase heading to Auburn University. He carried a research foundation that would rocket him into conversations with Major League Baseball organizations within months.
Caplan now pursues his M.S. in Biomechanics at Auburn, researching in the Sports Medicine and Movement Laboratory under Dr. Gretchen Oliver. His focus? The biomechanics of baseball and softball pitching, specifically how movement patterns can enhance performance while reducing injury risk.
That research recently landed Caplan on a national stage. He earned one of only eight student slots to present at the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) Analytics Conference in Phoenix, where he addressed MLB representatives and industry professionals. His presentation examined the relationship between collegiate pitchers' arm slots and estimated pitch control.
"This research has recently enabled me to present in front of MLB representatives," Caplan said.
The invitation didn't materialize from nowhere. Caplan has already secured co-author credits on his first publication at Auburn and developed independent kinematic analyses that produced two forthcoming first-author manuscripts.
Auburn recognized his potential, too. Caplan will likely receive the Dean's Research Fellowship and Graduate Teaching Assistantship to fund his continued work toward a Ph.D.
But Caplan traces his trajectory directly back to Coral Gables.
"My time at Miami was fundamental in preparing me for my graduate program, both academically and research-wise," Caplan said. "The rigor as well as the knowledgeable professors of the Exercise Physiology classes, in tandem with the wealth of kinesiology research opportunities available at UM made my adjustment to the next phase of my academic journey seamless."
Dr. Joseph Signorile, professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Sports Sciences, saw Caplan's potential from day one.
"From the first day I met you and your family, I could see in your eyes that look of excitement and determination that is evident in those of us that never forget how to dream of the future and are willing to work toward reaching our goals," Signorile said about Caplan.
Caplan made sure to credit the mentors who shaped his development, Zach, Brandon, Caleb, Dr. Eltoukhy, and others, and expressed interest in future collaborations.
For current and future students, Caplan's rapid rise offers a clear message: The research skills honed at UM can open doors at the highest levels of sport.
"A huge thank you to everybody at The U who has helped me excel thus far," Caplan said. "Go 'Canes!"
