Ava Fairbanks gives LIU a two-way edge and has been a late-season NEC riser
In the 2026 season, Ava Fairbanks has been a valuable two-way piece for Long Island University, splitting time as a pitcher/outfielder while contributing at the plate (.222 average, 1 RBI, .501 OPS in 21 appearances and 8 starts) and earning NEC Pitcher of the Week honors in back-to-back weeks to finish the regular season. A former high-school strikeout record holder and Rhode Island standout, she brings competitive pedigree, versatility, and run-prevention upside—though recent box scores show she can be hit hard at times, so she profiles best as a fit for teams valuing athleticism, depth, and matchup flexibility.
