Evan Dempsey of Florida Gulf Coast University has been named one of five finalists for the prestigious John Olerud Two-Way Player of the Year Award. As the reigning award winner, Dempsey aims to become only the second player in history to win consecutively, after Louisville's Brendan McKay. He joins notable contenders from various colleges, all recognized for their exceptional dual-performance capabilities on the field this season. Dempsey's impressive stats include a .333 batting average with 79 hits and 126 strikeouts as a pitcher, reflecting his standout dual-threat skills. The award winner will be announced on June 13, during the 2026 Men's College World Series.

By the Numbers
  • Dempsey recorded a .333 batting average, with 79 hits, 18 doubles, and 10 home runs.
  • On the mound, he had a 7-2 record with a 3.15 ERA and led the conference with 126 strikeouts.
State of Play
  • Dempsey is one of five finalists, showcasing a range of talent from different conferences.
  • The other finalists include players from Farleigh Dickinson, Utah Tech, Campbell, and Mercer, all with standout seasons.
What's Next

The John Olerud Two-Way Player of the Year Award will be presented on June 13, offering Dempsey a chance to make history with a back-to-back victory. His performance in the postseason could further enhance his chances of winning, as he continues to impress both as a hitter and a pitcher.

Bottom Line

Dempsey's bid for the John Olerud Award exemplifies the peak of collegiate baseball talent. His dual contributions could establish him as a legendary figure in college sports, but he will need to outperform stiff competition to achieve this historic feat.