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Monday, July 20, 2026

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A sign reads “This is… The Swamp” inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.
Sports

New president, new era: How Stuart Bell could shape Florida athletics

As Bell begins his tenure in Gainesville, attention turns to the role he could play in shaping the future of Florida athletics. Unlike many university presidents, Bell enters the role with extensive experience overseeing one of college athletics’ most notable programs. During his time at the University of Alabama from 2015 to 2025, the Crimson Tide won three national championships and six SEC championships under football coach Nick Saban, solidifying UA’s athletic department as one of the nation’s best. 


Florida baseball freshman right-handed pitcher Liam Peterson shows emotion after escaping a jam in the fourth inning of the team's game against Columbia University on Saturday, February 24, 2024.
Sports

Liam Peterson joins Florida’s first-round legacy under Kevin O’Sullivan

Since Kevin O’Sullivan took over as Florida baseball head coach in 2008, the Gators have established themselves as one of the premier programs in the country for developing future MLB talent. Year after year, Florida has produced players capable of competing at the highest level of the sport, and the MLB Draft has become another stage showcasing the success of the program’s player development.


Florida right-handed pitcher Liam Peterson (12) tosses the ball during an NCAA college baseball game against Auburn at Condron Family Ballpark in Gainesville, Fla., Friday, April 17, 2026.
Sports

Scouting the draft: Which Gators are likely to go in the 2026 MLB Draft?

The draft will take place from July 11-12, with Rounds 1-4 being held Saturday and Rounds 5-20 taking place Sunday. The Gators have multiple current players and high school commits who could be selected throughout the 20 rounds. Among the group, junior starting pitcher Liam Peterson has the strongest draft pedigree. Ranked No. 20 in MLB.com’s Top 250 players, the junior has consistently been projected as a first-round selection.



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