Ryker Waite is becoming Vanderbilt’s two-way-value shortstop with pop, patience, and real SEC traction
In the 2026 season, Ryker Waite emerged as a true impact infielder for Vanderbilt, starting all 58 games and hitting .305 with 7 home runs, 13 doubles, 44 RBI, 38 walks, and 13 steals; he also led the team with 23 RBI in SEC play. He was named to the 2026 USA Baseball Collegiate National Team and drew Brooks Wallace Award watch-list buzz, which tracks for a shortstop with a mature approach, speed, on-base feel, and plus defensive value. If you want an athletic, high-IQ middle infielder who keeps getting better, Waite is absolutely worth caring about.
