Derrick Pitts, a sophomore outfielder from Cincinnati, has etched his name into University of Cincinnati baseball history after being selected for the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team.
His inclusion marks the first time a Bearcat has earned a spot on the national squad, a milestone that reflects both his on‑field production and the growing prominence of the program.
During the 2026 season Pitts appeared in 58 games, batting .329 with six home runs, 42 RBI, 12 doubles and 49 runs scored, while also stealing 17 bases and recording four outfield assists.
The honor came after an intensive 11‑day training camp in which 28 college players were evaluated before the final roster was announced.
Pitts’ performance caught the eye of ESPN’s broadcast crew, leading to two appearances on the network’s SportsCenter Top 10 Plays this season.
He will now travel with the national team to Taichung City, Taiwan, where the World Collegiate Baseball Championship is scheduled for July 11‑15.
The tournament will feature top collegiate talent from around the globe, and Pitts is expected to contribute both his bat and his defensive skill set.
His energy and clutch hitting were on display during the Bearcats’ NCAA Tournament run in Starkville, where his plays sparked excitement among commentators.
A Milestone for Bearcat Baseball
The selection not only celebrates Pitts’ individual achievements but also signals a new era for Cincinnati’s program, which has historically produced few national‑level prospects.
Coaches and teammates alike have praised his work ethic and the way he elevates those around him, traits that were evident throughout the demanding season.
As the Bearcats look to build on this breakthrough, the program’s recruiting pipeline and development strategies are under renewed focus, with officials hoping to replicate the path that led Pitts to this national stage.
The upcoming championship will serve as a showcase for the next generation of college players, and Pitts’ participation underscores the caliber of talent emerging from the Midwest.