Southern Miss announced on June 18 that UAB second baseman Brady Waugh has committed to the Golden Eagles, filling the vacancy left by departing starter Kyle Morrison. The move comes as part of a broader infusion of talent from the transfer portal that could reshape the team's offensive outlook for the upcoming season.
Waugh arrives in Hattiesburg after a breakout year in which he posted a .322 batting average and a .431 on‑base percentage for the Blazers. In 2026 he logged 67 hits, driving in 49 runs and adding seven home runs, while also stealing 29 bases as part of a team‑wide aggressive base‑running strategy.
The junior’s defensive reliability was equally impressive, as he turned in a .970 fielding percentage at second base. His clutch credentials include a walk‑off grand slam against Middle Tennessee on March 7, 2026, a moment that highlighted his ability to deliver in high‑pressure situations.
A strategic addition to a revamped roster
Coaches see Waugh as a cornerstone for a lineup that already features transfers Brock Clayton, Cannon Peery, Cade Baker and Drew Harrison. The group of newcomers collectively stole 41 bases in 2026, underscoring the speed that will complement Waugh’s on‑base skills.
Southern Miss will also welcome freshmen and returning players such as Jace Norton, Brooks Willoughby, Jake Neely and Camden Rodgers, while several existing athletes — including McCarty English, who recently pledged to Arizona — have announced their intentions to transfer out. The churn reflects an aggressive reshaping of the squad under new leadership.
Beyond individual stats, the infusion of talent is expected to lift the program’s overall competitiveness in the Sun Belt Conference. The coaching staff believes that Waugh’s blend of power, patience and speed will provide the depth needed to challenge for a conference title and perhaps a regional berth.