Austin Peay State University announced that five of its baseball standouts have been selected to the 2026 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team, a recognition that highlights both their on-field contributions and classroom achievements.
Balancing Bat and Book
The honorees exemplify the modern student-athlete, combining competitive performance with rigorous academic pursuits that culminate in graduate-level accomplishments.
Spotlight on Standout Scholars
Andres Matias, a shortstop from Santo Domingo, posted a .299 average with 13 doubles and six home runs, drove in 44 runs and earned a week in which he recorded 12 RBI; his academic record includes a perfect 4.0 GPA and a master’s in business administration.
Gavin Alveti, hailing from Searcy, Arkansas, anchored the pitching staff with six saves and a 3.16 ERA, earned preseason and midseason watch‑list nods and graduated with a flawless 4.0 in history.
Ryker Walton, a Missouri native, transitioned to a starter role and finished the season with a 2‑4 record and a 5.36 ERA across 43.2 innings, while also completing a master’s in business administration with a perfect GPA.
Brody Lanham, a Clarksville, Tennessee product, contributed a 2‑2 record and a 7.66 ERA in relief appearances and earned a finance bachelor’s degree with a 3.7 GPA.
DJ Merriweather, also from Clarksville, led the team with 67 strikeouts, posted a 4‑2 record and a 5.25 ERA, and is pursuing a leadership‑science degree while maintaining a 3.77 GPA.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 Academic All-District® selections place these Governors in the running for the CSC Academic All-America® honors, which will be announced on June 23rd, potentially extending the university’s representation on a national stage.