UCLA junior shortstop Roch Cholowsky has earned a spot among the three finalists for the 2026 Golden Spikes Award, the premier honor that celebrates the nation’s top amateur baseball player for excellence on the field, integrity off it, and overall character.
The other two finalists are Landon Hairston from Arizona State and Daniel Jackson of Georgia, each of whom also enjoyed standout seasons that placed them at the forefront of college baseball.
Cholowsky’s season was nothing short of dominant: he batted .320, hit 21 home runs, drove in 60 runs, scored 73 times, and topped the Big Ten in runs, home runs and hit‑by‑pitches while ranking third in total bases. Defensively, his .965 fielding percentage placed him second among Division I shortstops in several key metrics.
Award Ceremony Details
The award will be presented on June 29 during a live broadcast on MLB Network at 7:30 p.m. ET. Fans can cast their votes through GoldenSpikesAward.com up until June 28, adding a public dimension to the selection process.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Cholowsky’s off‑field story has resonated with many. As a freshman he formed a lasting bond with a young patient named Luke, a connection that has endured through regular visits and support, illustrating the character component the award seeks to highlight.
UCLA’s athletic department and its partners, including USA Baseball, have praised Cholowsky’s leadership, noting that his recognition reflects both personal excellence and the program’s broader culture of sportsmanship.
With the award ceremony approaching, the buzz surrounding Cholowsky underscores a growing narrative that blends on‑field dominance with genuine community engagement, setting a benchmark for future collegiate athletes.