Utah Tech junior Ryan Kroepel has been named a finalist for the 2026 John Olerud Two-Way Player of the Year Award, recognizing him as one of the top dual-role players in college baseball. He joins four other distinguished finalists, each showcasing their skills as both hitters and pitchers. The award, honoring former WSU standout John Olerud, will be announced on June 13 during the College World Series in Omaha. Kroepel concluded his season as a standout player in the WAC, finishing among the league leaders in several significant offensive and pitching categories.

By the Numbers
  • Kroepel led the WAC with 51 walks, a Utah Tech single-season record.
  • He had a .312 batting average, with a .469 on-base percentage and 56 runs scored.
  • On the mound, he recorded 10 saves, ranking him 18th in NCAA Division I saves.
State of Play
  • Kroepel has been a consistent performer, starting all 59 games and achieving a career-long 37-game on-base streak.
  • Utah Tech finished the season with a 35-24 record, marking a significant improvement from the previous year.
What's Next

The John Olerud Award results will reveal the top dual-role collegiate player on June 13, potentially elevating Kroepel's profile within the baseball community. His strong performance may also impact his prospects for professional opportunities in the future.

Bottom Line

Ryan Kroepel's recognition as a finalist for the John Olerud Award highlights his exceptional dual-threat capabilities in college baseball, making him a key player to watch in upcoming seasons.