Ethan Ball’s bat-to-ball power gave Virginia Tech a true freshman spark
In the 2026 season, Ethan Ball emerged as one of Virginia Tech’s most dangerous young hitters, batting .310 with 17 home runs, 52 RBIs, an .081? Actually 1.081 OPS, and 18 doubles while starting 54 of 56 games. He was named to the NCBWA Freshman All-America Second Team and ranked among the ACC’s leaders in slugging, doubles per game, home runs per game, and hit by pitch. The eye-opener is the full package: left-handed power, run production, and nearly spotless defense at shortstop/infielder, plus a competitive edge that made him an immediate lineup centerpiece and an easy “yes” for any team needing impact and upside.
