A strategic addition to the bullpen
The Troy Trojans have announced the signing of two right‑handed relievers, JT Long and Preston Watkins, who will join the program ahead of the upcoming season. Both pitchers bring a blend of size, velocity and collegiate experience that coaches say could reshape the team’s late‑game strategy.
JT Long stands at 6‑foot‑7 and 250 pounds, a physical presence on the mound that complements his fastball that can reach 96 miles per hour. A native of Madeira Beach, Florida, Long was a two‑time All‑State pitcher at Calvary Christian School and earned JUCO All‑American honors as a true freshman at Polk State College in 2024. His 10 saves ranked third nationally, and he finished the season with a 3.41 ERA while striking out 45 batters.
Preston Watkins, listed at 6‑foot‑4 and 210 pounds, comes from Deer Park, Florida, and has already demonstrated his ability to dominate opposing lineups. In his freshman year at Eastern Oklahoma State College he posted a 3.21 ERA with 35 strikeouts across 18 appearances, and last season he compiled a 3.97 ERA with 33 strikeouts in 34 ⅓ innings while transferring to Texas A&M University‑Corpus Christi.
Watkins’ recent stint in 2025 saw him post a 4.18 ERA with 17 strikeouts in 23 ⅖ innings, and he previously recorded a 3.97 ERA with seven starts and nine appearances. His consistent strikeout rates and low ERAs signal a reliable arm that can be trusted in high‑pressure situations.
Coaches believe the duo will add depth and flexibility to the Trojans’ relief corps, allowing the staff to mix and match based on matchup and game situation. With both pitchers already accustomed to high‑level competition in Florida’s competitive high‑school and junior‑college circuits, the transition to NCAA play is expected to be seamless.
The addition of Long and Watkins reflects the program’s intent to recruit talent from the talent‑rich Florida market, a strategy that has paid dividends in recent seasons. Fans can look forward to seeing the new arms in action when the Trojans open their schedule later this spring.