You know we’re getting close to the college baseball season when the pundits begin naming pre-season honors. Such is the case with Illini closer Garrett Acton. The senior righty was just named to the Collegiate Baseball Newspaper All-America second team.
The honor is well deserved. Acton set the Illinois AND Big Ten single-season record in 2019 with 19 saves. Not only that, those 19 saves led the entire nation last year.
Garrett was recognized for his efforts. Among the honors he received:
- NCBWA Stopper of the Year Award finalist (one of six)
- NCBWA District Player of the Year
- NCBWA All-America first team
- Perfect Game/Rawlings All-America first team
- ABCA All-America second team
- Collegiate Baseball Newspaper All-America second team
- Mideast All-Region first team
- All-Big Ten first team reliever
Acton hasn’t let his athletics interfere with his academics either. According to FightingIllini.com, he had the highest grade point average among his junior athlete cohort.
This coming year may have a couple staffing questions but we have no doubt who will be Illinois’ closer. That will be Garrett Acton!
Congratulations, Garrett!