A Two‑Way Phenomenon
Evan Dempsey, a standout two‑way player for Florida Gulf Coast, has once again been recognized as the nation’s best at his dual role, earning the John Olerud Two‑Way Player of the Year Award for the second straight season.
The College Baseball Foundation announced its 2026 All‑America team, highlighting Dempsey’s repeat win and cementing his status as the only Atlantic Sun Conference player to receive the honor.
Dempsey’s season statistics were nothing short of spectacular: he started all 57 games for his team, batting .333 while driving in 46 runs, and on the mound he posted a 7‑2 record, a 3.15 ERA and 126 strikeouts.
His performance earned him first‑team all‑conference honors in both categories, underscoring the rarity of a player excelling at both hitting and pitching at such a high level.
The All‑America squad also features other award winners such as Daniel Jackson, Dylan Carey and Jackson Flora, reflecting a deep pool of talent across the collegiate landscape.
The foundation has now released its All‑America team for the seventh straight year, a testament to the growing visibility of college baseball and the caliber of players it continues to spotlight.
Dempsey’s accolades extend beyond the All‑America list; he was a semifinalist for both the Dick Howser Trophy and the Golden Spikes Award, further cementing his status as a top prospect for the next level.
The College Baseball Hall of Fame will honor the class of 2026 in Overland Park, Kansas, in February 2027, where Dempsey and his peers will be celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the sport.