WINTER HAVEN – Manning centerfield at cavernous Bing Tyus Yard is no easy task, but yet another Polk State Baseball player proved up to the challenge.

Freshman Bradyn Potter was recognized for his defense on a national level on Wednesday as he was named a recipient of a Rawlings Gold Glove. Rawlings Gold Glove awards honor the top defensive players in the nation at their positions.

Potter becomes the third Polk State centerfielder to win a Rawlings Gold Glove in four years, joining Jordan Thomas (2025) and Nelson Taylor (2023). Previously recognized as a second-team All-Citrus Conference performer and a member of the Citrus Conference and FCSAA All-Defensive teams, Potter posted a perfect fielding percentage and added four outfield assists this past season.

At the plate, Potter also had a strong year. He led the Eagles in batting average (.379), on-base percentage (.494), slugging (.538), hits (74), runs scored (61) and stolen bases (20). Potter finished second on the team with six home runs while adding 37 RBIs.

In addition to being the third outfielder in four years to win a Gold Glove, he becomes the sixth Polk State player to earn that prestigious distinction under Head Coach Al Corbeil. Other previous winners are former pitcher Alec Asher and catcher Erik Hindmon, who each took home a Gold Glove in 2012. Shortstop Dakota Harris earned a Gold Glove in 2022 when he was recognized as NJCAA Co-Defensive Player of the Year.

"Bradyn is a talented player who puts in the work in all aspects of his game," Corbeil said. "To see that work in the field pay off at a national level is rewarding."