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For Ethan Long and Sean McLain, there has been no shortage of accolades recognizing their stellar 2021 seasons. Yet another acknowledgment came in Tuesday, as both were selected to the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team.
Flipping ASU ➡️ USA for the summer
— USA Baseball CNT (@USABaseballCNT) June 30, 2021
Welcome to #TeamUSA, @Sean_McLain_ and @EthanLong2534! pic.twitter.com/RB8IoLhAPQ
The selection does not come as a surprise, as both Long and McLain were cornerstones of one of the conference’s best lineups this season. Long’s incredible late-season home run surge reminded fans of Spencer Torkelson’s long ball feats. Meanwhile, McLain led the team in doubles and blasted his fair share of home runs as well. Both figure to be key pieces in year one of the Willie Bloomquist era in 2022.
The Collegiate National Team is comprised of the nation’s top players who are set to return for at least one more season of college ball. In the case of Long and McLain, they’ll likely both have two more years in Tempe before heading to the professional ranks.
The national team has an all star lineup in the coaching staff as well. Elliot Avent (HC, North Carolina State) serves as manager, is joined by several of the nation’s top coaches. The assistant group is highlighted by Florida head coach Kevin O’Sullivan, and Texas hitting coach and former MLB perennial all star Troy Tulowitzki. Safe to say Long and McLain will be in good hands when the Collegiate National Team takes the field this summer.