In a remarkable turn of events, Georgia Tech's sophomore baseball player, Drew Burress, has been hailed as the top sophomore in college baseball by Perfect Game. This prestigious recognition comes after Burress delivered an outstanding freshman season, earning multiple national accolades including National Freshman of the Year from D1 Baseball and the National College Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA). The 2024 season saw Burress set new records and lead his team to impressive heights. As the Yellow Jackets prepare for the upcoming 2025 season, expectations are high for this rising star.
Burress, hailing from Houston County, made an immediate impact during his freshman year. He led Georgia Tech in several key statistics, including batting average (.381), home runs (25), and RBIs (67). His performance earned him the triple crown at Georgia Tech, making him only the 12th player to achieve this feat since Matt Gonzalez in 2016. Burress' slugging percentage of .821 not only broke the freshman record but also ranked as the fourth-highest single-season mark in program history. His exceptional play was recognized with numerous awards, including ACC Freshman of the Year and first-team All-American honors.
The 2024 season was a testament to Burress' dominance. He led all Division I freshmen in six statistical categories, including home runs per game and slugging percentage. Nationally, he ranked in the top three in 11 different categories, further solidifying his status as one of the most promising young talents in college baseball. Beyond his offensive prowess, Burress also excelled defensively, setting a school record for outfield assists with 10 base-runners gunned down from center field.
As the Yellow Jackets gear up for the 2025 season, excitement is building around Burress' potential. The team will open its campaign on February 14 against Old Dominion, with fans eagerly anticipating what promises to be another stellar year. Georgia Tech has also bolstered its roster with the No. 2 ranked recruiting class in the nation, adding 32 newcomers to an already formidable lineup. The schedule features challenging matchups against NCAA Tournament participants like Virginia and Clemson, as well as the annual rivalry game against Georgia at Truist Park.
The future looks bright for both Burress and the Georgia Tech baseball program. With such a talented sophomore leading the charge, the Yellow Jackets are poised to make significant strides in the coming season. Fans can look forward to an exciting year filled with memorable performances and potential championships. The stage is set for Burress to continue his ascent as one of the premier players in college baseball.