The 2026 season has already begun to write new chapters for several former Cougars, as a handful of standout players earned their first taste of the majors this August.
Mound newcomers
Josh Ekness, who missed six weeks with a 60‑day injury list, returned to the mound and posted a 1.64 ERA across five appearances, even securing a save that hinted at his late‑game reliability. A few days later, Robert Gasser logged three starts for the Milwaukee Brewers, limiting opponents to a single run while maintaining a 4.54 ERA over 14 outings.
Relief work and late‑inning impact
John King has emerged as a trusted option out of the bullpen for the Miami Marlins, recording six appearances in August and delivering two flawless innings that kept his WHIP under one. His consistency has helped the club stay within striking distance of a wild‑card spot.
Position players stepping up
Corey Julks, now in his fourth MLB season, returned to the Detroit Tigers after a stint in Toledo, contributing to a lineup that has already produced three RBIs and a home run from Jared Trio, an everyday starter for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Meanwhile, catcher Connor Wong, the Red Sox’s reserve backstop, capped the month with a three‑run homer that swung a game against Pittsburgh.
Minor‑league momentum
Beyond the big leagues, the organization’s top affiliates are also making noise. The Las Vegas Aviators captured first place in the Pacific Coast League’s first half with a 44‑29 record, while the Omaha Storm Chasers secured third in the International League’s second half at 23‑20. The Altoona Curve improved their ERA to 1.13 in August, and the Bowling Green Hot Rods rode a 47‑18 first‑half championship run in the South Atlantic League.