The baseball world took notice this week when Baseball America announced its annual awards naming Arizona State sophomore outfielder Landon Hairston the National Player of the Year and placing him on the First Team All‑American roster
Record‑Breaking Performance
Hairston’s statistical dominance was unmistakable He topped the nation among qualified hitters with an on‑base plus slugging percentage of 1.368 while his slugging percentage of .860 and his 81 runs batted in also set new standards for a leadoff batter in the modern era
His 28 home runs broke the single‑season record books at Arizona State surpassing the mark previously held by Bob Horner and his 28‑game hitting streak placed him among the program’s most consistent performers
Joining Hairston on the All‑American list sophomore Nu’u Contrades earned Second Team honors and was recognized as the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Lincoln Regional where his 21 homers and .770 slugging percentage highlighted a resilient campaign despite injury setbacks
The accolades reflect a broader resurgence for the Sun Devils a program that has leaned on veteran coaching and a deep talent pool to challenge traditional powerhouses With the season still unfolding the team’s early‑season surge suggests that Arizona State could contend for its first national title in decades