North Carolina baseball has received major preseason recognition, as three returning Tar Heels were named to Perfect Game’s 2026 Preseason All-America teams, the organization announced Wednesday afternoon.
Infielder Gavin Gallaher headlines the group with a Second Team All-America selection, while pitchers Jason DeCaro and Ryan Lynch earned Third Team honors. North Carolina was one of only six programs nationwide to place three or more players on Perfect Game’s preseason list, further cementing the Diamond Heels’ status as a national contender.
Gavin Gallaher Earns First Career All-America Honor
Junior infielder Gavin Gallaher secured the highest individual recognition among the Tar Heels, earning his first All-America selection of any kind despite already producing two standout seasons in Chapel Hill.
During the 2025 campaign, Gallaher delivered elite offensive production, posting a .325/.409/.603 slash line with 17 home runs, while leading the team in both hits (77) and RBIs (68). His impact was most evident in the postseason, where a dominant stretch earned him a second consecutive Chapel Hill Regional Most Outstanding Player award.
Gallaher’s consistency, power, and postseason performance position him as one of the premier infielders in college baseball entering the new season.
Jason DeCaro Continues Preseason All-America Streak
Right-hander Jason DeCaro collected his second straight preseason All-America nod, reinforcing his reputation as a reliable anchor in the Tar Heels’ pitching staff.
In 2025, DeCaro earned Second Team All-ACC honors after compiling a 9–3 record with a 3.78 ERA. He ranked second on the team in innings pitched (83.1) while recording 70 strikeouts against just 26 walks, showcasing both durability and command.
As a proven starter with postseason experience, DeCaro remains a key figure in North Carolina’s championship aspirations.
Ryan Lynch Builds on Freshman All-America Season
Sophomore Ryan Lynch enters the 2026 season riding momentum from a stellar freshman campaign that earned him Freshman All-America recognition.
Primarily used as a high-leverage reliever before transitioning into a starting role during the postseason, Lynch finished the year with a 5–1 record, two saves, and a 2.92 ERA across 61.1 innings, striking out 72 batters. His versatility and power arm give North Carolina valuable flexibility on the mound.
Tar Heels Pitching Staff Among Nation’s Best
DeCaro and Lynch played pivotal roles in a Tar Heels pitching staff that finished with the third-best ERA in the nation (3.47) and the top ERA in the ACC for the second consecutive season.
Alongside Gallaher’s offensive production, the trio helped guide North Carolina to its 27th conference championship and its 12th NCAA Super Regional hosting opportunity in 2025, underscoring the program’s sustained excellence.
Diamond Heels Set for Season Opener at Boshamer Stadium
North Carolina baseball will officially open its season on Friday, February 13, when the Diamond Heels host Indiana at Boshamer Stadium. With multiple preseason All-Americans returning and a proven pitching staff, expectations are high in Chapel Hill for another deep postseason run.
FAQ: North Carolina Baseball Preseason All-America Honors
How many North Carolina players were named Preseason All-Americans?
Three Tar Heels — Gavin Gallaher, Jason DeCaro, and Ryan Lynch — earned Preseason All-America honors from Perfect Game.
Which North Carolina player earned the highest preseason honor?
Gavin Gallaher led the group with a Second Team Preseason All-America selection.
What makes Jason DeCaro a key pitcher for North Carolina?
DeCaro posted a 9–3 record with a 3.78 ERA in 2025 and has earned back-to-back preseason All-America recognitions.
Why is Ryan Lynch considered a breakout player?
Lynch earned Freshman All-America honors after a dominant debut season and proved effective as both a reliever and starter.
When does North Carolina baseball begin its season?
The Diamond Heels open the season on Friday, February 13, at home against Indiana.
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