Colby Allen, a Louisville native who honed his skills at Starkville Academy, is poised to ink a deal with Major League Baseball’s Tampa Bay Rays as an undrafted free agent, marking the culmination of a four‑year collegiate journey at the University of Southern Mississippi.
College Career Highlights
During his tenure with the Golden Eagles, Allen distinguished himself as a two‑way standout, earning multiple All‑American honors from the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association and securing three ABCA All‑South Regional selections. He contributed to the team’s offensive output with a .320 batting average, seven home runs and 34 RBI, while also delivering a .610 slugging percentage and a .504 on‑base rate.
On the mound, Allen compiled a 1‑2 record with three saves across 13 1/3 innings, posting a 3.05 ERA and striking out 90 batters while walking only 18. His 264 career strikeouts rank among the most in Southern Miss history, and his 24 saves sit in the top five for the program.
Beyond baseball, Allen also saw action as a quarterback for the Vols football squad, showcasing his versatility as a multi‑sport athlete.
What This Means for the Rays
The Rays’ decision reflects a strategic interest in acquiring a pitcher who can also handle hitting duties, a rarity in today’s draft‑light environment. General manager Erik Neander noted that Allen’s blend of power, poise and competitive experience aligns with the club’s developmental philosophy. Fans can expect Allen to compete for a roster spot during spring training, where his dual‑position capability could provide added depth at both the pitching and designated‑hitter slots.