The Dick Howser Trophy, awarding college baseball's top player, was won by Georgia's Daniel Jackson in 2026. Established in 1987 to honor the late Dick Howser, a former All-American and MLB All-Star, the award is presented annually by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) during the College World Series. Jackson's win marks the 37th edition of this prestigious accolade, recognizing excellence in both performance and character, values embodied by Howser.

By the Numbers
  • This is the 37th annual Dick Howser Trophy awarded since its inception.
  • Eleven pitchers have won the award, more than any other position, with the ACC leading in winners at nine.
State of Play
  • The trophy's presentation has transitioned from a local event to being held at the College World Series in Omaha.
  • Voting for the award is now conducted by the NCBWA, focusing on performance, character, and leadership.
What's Next

As college baseball evolves, the Dick Howser Trophy could see potential changes in its selection criteria or presentation format, especially as the sport garners more attention nationally. Future winners will continue to be evaluated based on the values Dick Howser epitomized.

Bottom Line

The Dick Howser Trophy symbolizes the pinnacle of college baseball achievement, bridging legacy and performance. As its recognition grows, it not only honors individual excellence but also preserves the enduring impact of Dick Howser on the sport.