Jack Payton, backstop for the Louisville Cardinals, was hailed by Baseball America as a Preseason All-American. The esteemed publication, known for its yearly polling of big league scouting departments, honored Payton with a third team selection.
In the 2022 season, the junior divided his time between catcher and designated hitter, swatting a .350 average at the plate for the Cardinals. His 89 base knocks were the most by a Louisville player in six seasons, and his 23 two-baggers topped the ACC and tied for fifth-most in program annals.
Payton, one of four captains for the 2023 squad, received All-ACC recognition last spring before suiting up for the USA Collegiate National Team over the summer.
The Cardinals will open the 2023 campaign on Feb. 17, facing off against Bucknell at Jim Patterson Stadium for a three-game set.