Lebron, Upchurch Named to Baseball America Preseason Watch Lists
2/3/2026 3:48:00 PM | Baseball
The Crimson Tide pair was added to the publication’s inaugural preseason award series
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Alabama baseball's Justin Lebron and Myles Upchurch were both included in Baseball America's first-ever preseason award watch lists, the outlet revealed Tuesday.
Lebron was first named among 20 players from around the country to BA's Preseason Player of the Year Watch List in addition earning status as a Preseason Second Team All-American from the publication. The preseason All-America recognition from Baseball America stands as the third such distinguishment for Lebron entering the 2026 campaign, as the junior shortstop was previously named a First Team Preseason All-American by Perfect Game USA while having also earned second team honors from D1Baseball.com.
Upchurch was also recognized by Baseball America, having been added as one of 20 players to its Preseason Freshman of the Year Watch List.
Justin Lebron
Shortstop, Junior
- Started all 59 games at shortstop for the Crimson Tide in 2025
- Posted a .316 average (73-for-231) with 18 doubles, one triple and 18 home runs as a sophomore
- His stat line included 72 RBI, 60 runs scored, 35 walks, 10 hit-by pitch and 17 steals in 18 attempts
- Lebron's 72 RBI were the most by a shortstop and sophomore player in program history
- Named a First Team All-American by ABCA/Rawlings at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign
- Also earned Third Team All-American accolades from the National College Baseball Writers Association and Perfect Game USA
Myles Upchurch
Pitcher, Freshman
- A power right-hander expected to make immediate contributions on the mound for the Crimson Tide
- Recognized as Perfect Game USA's No. 1 right-handed pitcher and the second-ranked overall prospect from the state of Maryland among the 2025 recruiting class
- The 63rd-ranked national recruit and the No. 14 right-hander in the country by PG
- The top overall recruit from the state of Maryland according to Prep Baseball Report
- PBR's 53rd-ranked prospect and the 11th-rated righty nationally
