As Longhorns baseball prepares for what could be a special 2026 campaign, a few stars are already making headlines. On Tuesday, Aiden Robbins, Dylan Volantis, Brett Crossland, and Michael Winter earned spots on Baseball America’s preseason national awards watch lists. For the talented group, the honor comes as no surprise, considering how well they have performed in college.
While they each gave the Longhorns a reason to celebrate, they were highlighted in different ways. Robbins, who Texas added through the transfer portal, was named to the preseason watch list for the College Player of the Year Award, and Volantis, who shined as a freshman, made it onto the College Pitcher of the Year Award watch list. Crossland and Winter were selected to the Freshman of the Year Award watch list.
Although Robbins has yet to play a game in a Longhorns uniform, expectations are high. During his final season at Seton Hall, the Pennsylvania native recorded 86 hits, 19 doubles, 133 total bases, and 26 multi-hit games. Due to his play, Robbins earned All-Big East First Team honors.
Like Robbins, Volantis was one of the best players at his position. He led all freshmen in WHIP with 0.88 and saves with 12. He also ranked second in ERA at 1.94, writing his name into the record books. The Longhorns’ lefty had 11 saves in SEC play, the most in conference history.
Rounding out the list are Crossland and Winter, who thrived during the last season of their high school careers. While leading the Corona del Sol High rotation, Crossland posted a 2.09 ERA and tossed three no-hitters. His performance on the mound was key in the Aztecs ending their title drought. Winter also made headlines with his arm, posting a 0.11 ERA in 62.2 innings.
With that group leading the way, Texas is poised to make a deep playoff run. They have a roster full of talent that is getting national recognition and is highly motivated to prove their believers right.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Longhorns baseball quartet named to national awards watch lists
Reporting by Jamie Gatlin, Longhorns Wire / Longhorns Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
