Southern Miss University’s baseball program has secured a potent bat for the 2026 season by landing Grand Canyon first baseman Cannon Peery through the NCAA transfer portal.
The junior posted a .287 average this past year with a career‑high 54 hits and nine home runs, and he also drove in 32 runs, including nine games with multiple RBIs.
Peery’s arrival comes after he entered the portal on May 27 and announced his commitment on June 9, marking the second addition to the Golden Eagles’ 2026 recruiting class following pitcher Drew Harrison.
Harrison, a right‑hander from Pearl River Community College, pledged to the program on June 8, underscoring a busy period for Southern Miss as four of its current pitchers have also opted to explore new opportunities.
Coach Christian Ostrander highlighted the strategic fit, noting that Peery’s proven RBI production addresses a critical need in the middle of the order after Matthew Russo’s eligibility expired.
The move reflects a broader trend across college baseball, where programs are increasingly turning to the transfer portal to plug gaps and bolster competitiveness ahead of the next campaign.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With the new additions, the Golden Eagles aim to maintain their momentum from recent seasons and contend for conference honors. Fans can expect a lineup that blends experienced talent with fresh energy, as the coaching staff integrates the newcomers into a cohesive unit.