OVERLAND PARK, Kan. --- Norfolk State outfielder and left-handed pitcher Thomas Ealey earned a spot on the 2026 John Olerud Two-Way Player of the Year Award watch list, the College Baseball Foundation announced on Wednesday afternoon.
 
The award honors former John Olerud, a standout at Washington State University who excelled as both a first baseman and left-handed pitcher in the late 1980s. He entered the National College Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007.
 
The 49 players on this year's watch list reflect some of the biggest names in college baseball this season. The watch list represents a wide range of schools from across the country with players who have already made significant contributions to their team's success.
 
"This may be one of the deepest and most talented watch lists we've had since the John Olerud Award was created," said George Watson, chairman of the John Olerud Two-Way Player of the Year Award. "We have several players already making big impacts both on the mound and at the plate. We're excited to watch how each of our watch list honorees progress throughout the season."
 
A 6-foot-4 sophomore from Fort Mill, South Carolina, Ealey has contributed to multiple roles for the Spartans. At the plate, he has tallied 12 hits, six runs scored, two RBIs and one triple this season. On the mound, he has made two appearances and recorded two strikeouts.
 
"Thomas has made an immediate impact for us, both as an outfielder and on the mound," said head baseball coach M.L. Morgan. "It is exciting to see him make the watch list for such a prestigious award. We look forward to his continued impact on our program."
 
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