The Conference USA All-Academic Team has added two new names from Florida International University, acknowledging the rare blend of classroom dedication and on‑field impact that both seniors and juniors have demonstrated this season.
Preston Prince, a senior right‑hander, carries a perfect 4.0 grade point average while majoring in finance and preparing for a summer graduation. His statistical dominance includes a team‑leading 54 strikeouts, three outings of six or more innings, and a career‑high 10‑strikeout performance against Dallas Baptist. A memorable diving catch earned him the top spot on SportsCenter’s Top 10 plays, underscoring his defensive flair.
Equally impressive, junior infielder Cooper Rasmussen balances a 3.93 GPA with a crime‑science major. Rasmussen has powered the Panthers with 11 home runs and 27 runs batted in across 47 games, posting a .279 batting average and contributing 13 multi‑hit games. His clutch hitting includes a walk‑off homer against Kennesaw State, tying him for second on the team in long balls.
Academic accolades beyond the diamond
Both athletes have been repeatedly honored on the Dean’s List, the Conference USA Commissioner’s Honor Roll, and have received the Conference USA Academic Medal, reflecting a sustained commitment to scholarship. Their recognitions illustrate how FIU’s baseball program cultivates talent that excels in both the classroom and the competition arena.