The United States Baseball Federation revealed that Tanner Bradley and Will Sanford, both standout pitchers from the University of Oregon, have been selected for the 2026 USA Baseball Collegiate National Team. Their inclusion marks a significant moment for Oregon baseball and underscores the program's rising national profile.
Bradley enjoyed a breakout season that placed him among the nation's most dominant relievers. He posted a 1.66 ERA across 31 appearances, earned first‑team All‑Big Ten Conference honors, and led the Ducks with a program‑record 0.82 WHIP. His consistency helped Oregon secure crucial victories throughout the year.
Sanford also delivered an elite performance, recording a modern‑era program record 37 strikeouts looking and holding opponents to a .186 batting average. The left‑hander was recognized with Perfect Game All‑America honors and earned second‑team All‑Big Ten Conference accolades, cementing his status as one of the conference's top talents.
A Milestone for Oregon Baseball
Oregon joins an exclusive group of six collegiate programs that will be represented by multiple players on the 2026 Collegiate National Team. This is the fifth occasion in program history that the Ducks have placed more than one athlete on the U.S. roster, highlighting the program's sustained excellence.
The newly minted National Team will travel to Taichung City, Taiwan, to compete in the inaugural World Collegiate Baseball Championship from July 11 through July 15. The tournament will feature top collegiate talent from around the globe, offering Bradley and Sanford a chance to showcase their skills on an international stage.
Both pitchers expressed excitement about the upcoming opportunity. Bradley noted that representing his university and country is a dream realized, while Sanford emphasized the honor of joining a select group of Oregon alumni who have previously donned the Team USA uniform.
Looking Ahead
The selection of Bradley and Sanford not only reflects their individual achievements but also signals the growing influence of Oregon's baseball program on the national scene. As the team prepares for the championship, the Ducks' coaching staff and fans alike anticipate a historic performance that could further elevate the program's reputation.