Akadema Endorser Mickey Gilligan Named New Jersey Player of the Year
Akadema is proud to announce that endorser Mickey Gilligan has been named New Jersey Player of the Year, capping off an extraordinary season that showcased his exceptional talent and dedication to baseball excellence. This prestigious recognition reflects Gilligan's outstanding performance throughout the year, during which he dominated offensive statistics across the state.
A Historic Offensive Season
Mickey Gilligan's 2026 season was nothing short of remarkable. The talented player led the state of New Jersey in nearly all offensive categories, establishing himself as one of the most dominant hitters in the region. His statistical achievements speak volumes about his skill and consistency at the plate.
Gilligan's batting average of .639 demonstrated his exceptional ability to make contact and drive the ball effectively. This elite batting average placed him among the state's most prolific hitters and showcased his technical proficiency as a batter. Beyond his average, Gilligan also led the state with an impressive 13 home runs, proving his power-hitting capabilities and ability to impact games with big moments.
Impressive Power Metrics
The slugging percentage of 1.417 and on-base plus slugging (OPS) of 2.183 further illustrated Gilligan's dominance at the plate. These advanced metrics highlight not only his ability to get on base but also his exceptional power production. An OPS above 2.000 is extraordinarily rare in high school baseball, making Gilligan's achievement even more noteworthy.
MLB Draft Combine Performance
Gilligan's excellence extended beyond the regular season. At the MLB Draft Combine held last week in Arizona at Chase Field, he continued to impress scouts and evaluators. The young prospect threw a combine-best 86 mph, demonstrating elite arm strength that caught the attention of professional scouts.
Additionally, Gilligan's pop times of 1.68 to 1.72 seconds were confirmed by Baseball America, showcasing his exceptional athleticism behind the plate. These combine metrics, paired with his outstanding regular season statistics, position Gilligan as a prospect with significant potential at the professional level.
Looking Forward
Mickey Gilligan's selection as New Jersey Player of the Year is a testament to his hard work, talent, and commitment to the sport. Akadema is honored to support athletes of his caliber who represent the highest standards of baseball excellence. As Gilligan continues his journey toward professional baseball, his achievements this season will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for future success.