SANFORD, Fla. – The Citadel two-way star Michael Gibson was named a Perfect Game third-team All-American, per an announcement from the organization Wednesday afternoon.
 
"I'm absolutely honored. I can't say enough thanks to the Citadel coaches and my teammates for not only making me a better baseball player but also a better person," Gibson said. "It was such a privilege to play for our program, and I will forever be in debt."
 
Notably, Gibson slotted in to the All-American third team under the two-way player designation, recognizing his prowess at the plate as well as effectiveness from the mound. He joins JP Sears as the most recent Bulldog to earn All-American distinction, with Sears securing multiple such accolades following the 2017 campaign.
 
The native of Rock Hill, S.C., had a standout 2026 run for The Citadel as a two-way player, emerging as the eighth Bulldog in program history to post a batting average over .400 in a single season and ranking sixth all-time with a .408 average. Additionally, he was one of only two players in Division I to record six-plus home runs and 10-plus saves during the season.
 
On the mound, Gibson finished the year with a 5-2 record, a 5.26 ERA, 53.0 innings pitched, 73 strikeouts and 10 saves, the latter of which ranked as the highest mark in the Southern Conference and serves as the most for the program since 2015 when Skylar Hunter recorded 13.

"I'm thrilled for Gibby to receive this well-earned recognition. He made a significant impact on our team, both at the plate and on the mound, as well as in the clubhouse, where he took on a leadership role," said pitching coach James Reeves. "It was inspiring to see a guy hit over .400, throw 96, and be one of the most genuinely good people you've ever met."
 
"I would've been disappointed if he wasn't selected. No one is more deserving than he is," said head coach Russell Triplett. "Two-way players who can do both are hard to find. It's even harder to find two-way players who are also great teammates. Gibby made our program and team better in all areas."