Baumgardener graduated from Columbus Mifflin High School. As a WVU freshman, he saw limited action at third base, but it was believed with the graduation of the WVU starting outfield, his playing time would increase that year as he should get the nod in left field. He was used as a pinch runner his freshman year because of his good speed and improved his consistency at the plate. As a sophomore, Baumgardener was the staring left fielder. He was an outstanding defensive outfielder with speed and a strong, accurate arm. That year, he stole 13 (of 14) bases. Coach Ramsburg called him a definite spark for the team. Returning for his junior year, he was slated to start in left out field for the second straight season.