AUBURN, Ala. – Auburn shortstop Ryan Bliss and right-handed pitcher Richard Fitts were named Preseason Third Team All-America by Baseball America Monday.
The preseason All-America recognition is the third for Bliss and second for Fitts. Bliss has also been named Preseason Third Team All-America by Collegiate Baseball and Perfect Game/Rawlings, while Fitts earned Preseason Second Team All-America honors from D1 Baseball.
Bliss has accounted for 99 hits since the start of the 2019 season, marking the sixth most in the Southeastern Conference during that time and the second most among active players. He is tied with teammate Rankin Woley in the category.
A native of LaGrange, Georgia, Bliss ranked second in the SEC and sixth in the country in hits (29) in 2020. He also appeared in the top 10 in the league in runs (21), doubles (seven), triples (two) and total bases (46).
Making the move from second base to shortstop prior to the 2020 season, Bliss started in all 18 games and didn't commit an error in 58 chances en route to earning Third Team All-America honors from Collegiate Baseball at the position. He enters the 2021 season regarded by Baseball America as the No. 76 overall prospect for the 2021 MLB Draft.
Fitts has earned a plethora of preseason recognition after a strong performance during the fall. He has been ranked the No. 8 and No. 9 college prospect by Perfect Game and D1 Baseball, respectively, entering the 2021 season. Fitts has also been tabbed the No. 13 overall prospect by Perfect Game, the No. 15 overall prospect by Baseball America and the No. 17 overall prospect by MLB.com.
A key contributor since his freshman season in 2019, the Helena, Alabama, native has made 27 career appearances, including six starts, and has posted a 6-3 record with a 4.88 ERA. Fitts made appearances in the SEC Tournament, regional, super regional and College World Series as a freshman before going 1-0 with a 2.77 ERA in six appearances as a sophomore.
Bliss, Fitts and the Tigers are scheduled to start the 2021 season against Presbyterian on Feb. 19 at 4 p.m. CT at Plainsman Park. Additional information related to attendance and safety protocols at Plainsman Park will be announced closer to the start of the season.
Bliss, Fitts pick up more preseason All-America honors
