Four former Liberty Flames baseball players were selected in the 2026 MLB Draft, marking a significant achievement for the program. Ben Blair, Tanner Marsh, Tyler August, and Josh Swink were all chosen in the draft, with Blair being the highest pick in program history. This achievement is a testament to the program's success and the talent of its players.
Blair, a pitcher, was selected by the Tampa Bay Rays in the second round, becoming the second player in program history to be named to the Golden Spikes Award Midseason Watch List. His impressive performance, including a 7-5 record and 3.53 ERA, solidified his status as a top prospect. Marsh, the 2026 CUSA Player of the Year, was named to the Brooks Wallace Award Semifinalist list and led the team with a .336 batting average and 89 hits. August, a right-hander, posted a 7-0 record and 3.47 ERA, while Swink, a left-hander, struck out 60 and held opponents to a .257 batting average.
The selections highlight the program's ability to produce top talent and the potential for future success in the MLB. Liberty has now had 83 players taken in the MLB Draft during its 53-year history, with at least one player chosen in each draft since 2000, except for the 2020 draft due to the pandemic. This achievement is a significant milestone for the program and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches.
The success of these players is a reflection of the program's commitment to excellence and the impact it has on the players' careers. It is a source of pride for the university and a testament to the power of hard work and dedication. As the program continues to produce top talent, it will undoubtedly continue to make a significant impact in the world of baseball.
