A New Shortstop for the Razorbacks
Ben Cleary, a standout shortstop who transferred from Santa Clara, has officially pledged to join the Arkansas Razorbacks baseball program for the 2026 season.
During his junior year he posted a .358 batting average, hit five home runs and drove in 30 runs, numbers that helped him earn second‑team All‑West Coast Conference honors.
He also drew 24 walks while striking out 24 times, preserving a perfect balance between patience and power at the plate.
The move comes as Arkansas prepares for potential turnover in its infield, with as many as four starters from the 2026 roster — including Kozeal, TJ Pompey, Nolan Souza and Reese Robinett — eyeing departures.
Coach Dave Van Horn is expected to rely on Cleary to bring stability to a shortstop position that struggled in the previous season, where freshman Carson Brumbaugh and Camden Kozeal were tested in the role.
Cleary’s defensive reliability is underscored by a .952 fielding percentage, a figure that should ease concerns about the team’s infield consistency.
Although ranked No. 297 by Over‑Slot Baseball and therefore a draft risk, his proven collegiate performance suggests he could make an immediate impact in Fayetteville.
Looking Ahead
If the projected departures materialize, the Razorbacks will need to fill several key spots, but the return of players such as Wills Maginnis and Dawson Bryce, along with the potential re‑entry of other veterans, offers a foundation for continuity.
The upcoming season will test how quickly Cleary can adapt to the SEC’s competitive environment, but early indications point to a promising addition for Arkansas baseball.