Kentucky adds Atlantic 10 standout outfielder Jayce Tharnish

Jayce Tharnish, one of the top outfielders in the Atlantic 10 in 2025, announced his commitment to Kentucky on Monday. Tharnish slashed .403/.461/.597 with 11 doubles, two triples and seven homers, along with 32 stolen bases in 2025 for St. Bonaventure. He earned Atlantic 10 All-Conference Second Team honors following the season.

As a redshirt sophomore, Tharnish tied for second in the A-10 in batting average, 12th in on-base percentage and 13th in slugging. His wSB (weighted stolen bases, which estimates the number of runs a player contributes to his team by stealing bases compared to the average player) was 5.5, which easily led the conference and ranked ninth nationally, according to FanGraphs.

“This past month has been a roller coaster filled with long talks and big decisions,” Tharnish wrote on social media. “It has not been easy but I have faith in this process and am certain I have found my new home. With that being said, I’m proud to announce that I will be continuing my career at The University of Kentucky. Excited to get to work!”

Class of 2025 high school signee Conor Essenburg signed with the Atlanta Braves last week after being selected in the fifth round of the MLB draft, opening up the possibility of adding another outfielder. Tharnish, as well, was a possibility to go in the MLB draft but ultimately will return to college and look to improve his draft stock while playing in the SEC.

In a June 30 article, Baseball America listed Tharnish as one of the 10 underrated portal names to watch for next season.

“…his standout performance in the Atlantic 10 and elite athleticism make him an intriguing one-year flier. He covers ground well in center field, offers real stolen base value and shows contact skills that could carry him even if the impact is light. If he stays in school, he’s a plug-and-play top-of-the-order spark plug with upside depending on the environment.”