Daniel Jackson Makes History as SEC Player of the Year
Georgia’s catcher Daniel Jackson was crowned the SEC Player of the Year on Tuesday, joining an elite group of Bulldogs who have earned the conference’s top honor. His selection marks the third time a Georgia player has captured the award, underscoring the program’s recent dominance in collegiate baseball.
Jackson’s 2026 campaign was nothing short of historic. He completed the NCAA triple crown, smashing 27 home runs while driving in 77 runs and batting a scorching .394. Those numbers not only led the league but also set a new benchmark for power and average combined in a single season.
Perhaps the most astonishing element of his performance was his speed on the bases. Jackson became the first catcher and only the sixth player in NCAA history to steal 25 bases while also hitting 25 home runs, a feat that highlights his rare blend of power and agility.
A Season of Milestones
The Bulldogs closed out the regular season with a 43‑12 overall record and a 23‑7 mark in SEC play, positioning them as a formidable contender heading into the tournament. Their next test will be the SEC Tournament in Hoover, Alabama, where the team hopes to translate its regular‑season success into a championship run.
Coach Chris Lemonis praised Jackson’s leadership both on and off the field, noting that the catcher’s work ethic has set a standard for the entire roster. As the tournament approaches, teammates and fans alike are eager to see how Jackson’s historic season will continue to unfold.