McDermott, a 1993 College of Business Administration graduate, was a top hurler for the baseball Rams in the early 1990's. He compiled a 17-2 career record with 102 strike outs, a 2.35 ERA, seven complete games and five shutouts. McDermott is currently tied for the school record in career shut outs, is third in career ERA and ninth in career wins. He capped an outstanding senior season by going 9-0 on the mound with a 1.90 ERA and three shutouts, the second most shutouts in a season for a Fordham pitcher. He capped his senior year by winning the Vincent T. Lombardi Award as the school's top male athlete.
 
After playing both football and baseball as a freshman, McDermott hit .301 as a sophomore, playing shortstop and pitching. As a junior, he compiled a 7-2 record with a 2.92 ERA, striking out 40 and throwing two shut outs.
 
Following graduation, McDermott was drafted by the Chicago White Sox.