College Baseball's Weekly Elite: Unveiling the Stars of Week 3
Baseball America is on a mission this season: to spotlight the nation's top collegiate baseball talent, week after week. Their National College Team of the Week isn't just about flashy stats (though there's plenty of that). It's a carefully curated selection, considering not only statistical dominance but also the caliber of competition and underlying performance metrics. Think of it as a who's who of players who are truly making a difference on the diamond.
This week's lineup is a testament to the depth and excitement of college baseball. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, these players are setting the stage for an unforgettable season. But here's where it gets interesting: the team includes not just position players, but also a designated hitter wildcard, allowing Baseball America to recognize exceptional talent regardless of their usual role. And let's not forget the pitchers – four of them, each bringing their unique brand of dominance to the mound.
Meet the Week 3 Standouts:
C: Weber Neels (Minnesota) - This fourth-year starter exploded at U.S. Bank Stadium, going 10-for-14 with four home runs, two doubles, and nine RBIs against Kansas. His performance solidifies his place among the Big Ten's elite power hitters.
1B: Ryan Niedzwiedz (SIUE) - Niedzwiedz continued his power surge, adding three more home runs to his season total. His 6-foot-2 frame and consistent hitting make him a force to be reckoned with, and a name to watch in the upcoming 2026 draft.
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3B: Temo Becerra (Texas) - Becerra had a breakout weekend, going 6-for-12 with three home runs and seven RBIs. His ability to get on base consistently (reaching safely in 8 of 13 plate appearances) makes him a dangerous threat at the plate.
SS: Jake Schaffner (North Carolina) - This North Dakota State transfer is making a name for himself at North Carolina. His Week 3 performance (11-for-17 with four doubles, a triple, and a home run) highlights his all-around offensive prowess and impressive plate discipline (only one strikeout in 13 games).
OF: Cider Canon (Duke) - Canon is a versatile talent, excelling both behind the plate and in the outfield. His Week 3 performance (9-for-14 with four home runs and 10 RBIs) demonstrates his power and discipline, drawing five walks against only three strikeouts.
OF: Drew Detlefsen (UTSA) - Detlefsen is a key contributor to UTSA's strong start. His Week 3 performance (8-for-18 with three home runs and six RBIs) solidifies his position as one of the American Conference's top sluggers.
OF: Will Gasparino (UCLA) - Gasparino is on fire! Leading the nation with 10 home runs, including four in Week 3, he's forcing evaluators to re-evaluate his draft potential. His transformation from a power-hitting prospect at Texas to a more disciplined hitter with above-average athleticism is truly remarkable.
DH: Daniel Jackson (Georgia) - Coach Wes Johnson's preseason prediction about Jackson being a breakout star is proving true. His Week 3 performance (8-for-21 with five home runs and nine RBIs) shows he's on pace to reach the coveted 20/20 club (20 home runs, 20 stolen bases).
P: Michael Sharman (Clemson) - Sharman delivered a masterpiece against South Carolina, pitching a complete game on just 78 pitches. His efficiency and control (one run, four hits, no walks, four strikeouts) are a testament to his talent.
P: Mason Edwards (USC) - Edwards is on a historic streak, not allowing a hit in 18 innings. His Week 3 performance (11 strikeouts in seven innings) solidifies his position as a top college left-handed pitching prospect in the 2026 class.
P: Chris Levonas (Wake Forest) - Levonas dominated Loyola Marymount with six perfect innings and a career-high 14 strikeouts. His sophomore season is off to a blazing start, and he's definitely one to watch for the 2027 draft.
P: Andrew Herrmann (Louisiana) - Herrmann pitched a complete-game shutout against a strong UC San Diego lineup, allowing only one hit and striking out 13. His performance lowered his ERA to a stellar 1.33.
TWP: Caylon Dygert (UT Arlington) - Dygert's performance against No. 9 Arkansas was nothing short of heroic. He struck out 11 batters over 8.2 innings, allowing no earned runs despite throwing 130 pitches. His dominance on the mound earned him a spot on the Team of the Week, even though his batting performance was less impressive.
The Debate: Who's the Real MVP?
While each player on this list deserves recognition, who do you think is the Week 3 MVP? Is it Gasparino with his nation-leading home runs, Edwards with his untouchable streak, or perhaps Sharman with his pitching masterpiece? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! And this is the part most people miss: who do you think is flying under the radar and deserves more attention?
