Four former University of Kentucky baseball players have been named to the Canadian Baseball Network’s 25th Anniversary All-Canadian College Team. Pitchers Andrew Albers, James Paxton, Zach Pop, and infielder Emilien Pitre were recognized for their significant contributions to baseball. All honorees have played or are currently playing professionally, showcasing a strong connection between Canadian amateur baseball and Kentucky. This accolade emphasizes their impactful careers and development within the sport.

By the Numbers
  • Andrew Albers: 81 games at UK, 20-18 record, 4.47 ERA, 239.1 innings pitched.
  • James Paxton: 55 games at UK, 168 strikeouts, 4.91 ERA in 148.1 innings.
  • Zach Pop: 52 games at UK, 1-3 record, 4.48 ERA, debuted in MLB in 2021.
  • Emilien Pitre: .307 batting average, 143 hits, 109 RBIs, drafted in the 2nd round in 2024.
State of Play
  • All honorees reflect a growing trend of Canadian talent in collegiate baseball.
  • The recognition positions UK as a key player in developing future professional athletes.
  • Former Wildcats continue to make impacts in MLB and other leagues globally.
What's Next

The recognition may lead to increased recruitment efforts by Kentucky to attract more Canadian talent. Additionally, as the honorees continue their professional careers, their success could inspire more young players from Canada to pursue collegiate baseball in the U.S.

Bottom Line

The selection of these former Wildcats highlights the significant role of the University of Kentucky in nurturing Canadian baseball talent, reinforcing the team's stature as a developmental powerhouse in collegiate sports.