The 2026 NCAA baseball tournament is already delivering storylines that transcend the usual March madness narrative, and none are more compelling than the reunion of two former Pensacola Catholic High School teammates now starring for powerhouse programs. Carter McCulley, a senior at Florida State, and Chris Rembert, a sophomore at Auburn, have each carved out distinct paths that could see them meet again in the later rounds.
A Tale of Two Drafted Talents
McCulley arrives in Tallahassee with a résumé that includes a 20th‑round selection by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2022 MLB Draft, though he elected to remain in college. This season he batted .295, hit six home runs and drove in 14 runs, helping the Seminoles secure the No. 10 national seed. His experience and steady production give Florida State a deep lineup as they eye a run to the Super Regionals.
Rembert, meanwhile, has emerged as a dynamic force for the Auburn Tigers. In his sophomore campaign he posted a .345 average, a .402 on‑base percentage and a .478 slugging percentage, punctuated by four homers and 43 RBIs. The Tigers earned the No. 4 national seed, and Rembert’s All‑SEC recognition reflects both his offensive output and his defensive reliability. He was also crowned the 2024 PNJ Player of the Year after a stellar prep career at Pensacola Catholic.
Road to the Super Regionals
The tournament bracket places both teams in positions to potentially clash in the Super Regionals, a stage that would mark a historic moment for the Pensacola alumni. Florida State’s 48th consecutive NCAA appearance underscores a program steeped in tradition, while Auburn aims to return to the College World Series for the first time since 2022. Each win brings the duo one step closer to the ultimate prize.
Beyond the stats and seeds, the presence of McCulley and Rembert serves as a rallying point for the Gulf Coast community that has long followed their high school exploits. Their journeys illustrate how local talent can ascend to the national stage, inspiring the next generation of players in Pensacola and beyond.
As the tournament progresses, the eyes of scouts, fans and former teammates will be fixed on these two athletes, whose draft prospects and collegiate ambitions remain intertwined. Whether they ultimately meet on the field or pursue separate paths, their impact on the sport is already evident, promising a narrative that will be recounted long after the final out.