Oklahoma’s baseball program has secured a new piece for its 2027 roster, announcing the addition of Tennessee outfielder Jay Abernathy.
A standout from the SEC
Abernathy logged 53 appearances for the Volunteers in 2026, batting .236 while delivering three home runs and nine stolen bases.
His high school roots trace back to North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia, where he helped the Eagles capture back‑to‑back 2A state titles.
Ranked as the No. 16 shortstop nationally by Perfect Game, Abernathy brings a blend of speed, power and defensive flexibility that coaches say fits the Sooners’ evolving needs.
Filling the gaps left by departing stars
With several key players set to move on, the Sooners view Abernathy’s SEC experience as a bridge to maintain offensive momentum while adding depth in the outfield.
The coaching staff, led by Skip Johnson, has been actively assembling the class, recently also landing infielder/outfielder Grayson Childers from Queens University.
Both commits underscore a recruiting push that aims to reshape the lineup before the next season, blending home‑grown talent with out‑of‑state prospects.
The move reflects a broader strategy to sustain competitiveness in the Big 12, as the program looks to rebuild around a mix of proven performers and high‑upside newcomers.