Roch Cholowsky: A Stellar Season Earns the 2025 Brooks Wallace Award
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – In a dazzling showcase of talent and determination, Roch Cholowsky, a sophomore from UCLA, has been crowned the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Brooks Wallace Award. This accolade, awarded by the College Baseball Foundation, recognizes the nation’s finest shortstop based on outstanding offensive and defensive performance.
The Legacy of the Brooks Wallace Award
The Brooks Wallace Award pays tribute to Brooks Wallace, a former Texas Tech shortstop whose illustrious career spanned from 1977 to 1980. Tragically, Wallace passed away from leukemia at just 27 years old. The award not only honors his legacy but also shines a spotlight on the exemplary athletes who embody his spirit.
Cholowsky’s Historic Achievement
Cholowsky’s win is monumental; he is both the first sophomore and the first UCLA player ever to receive this honor. Last year’s Brooks Wallace Player of the Year, Griff O’Ferrall from the University of Virginia, sets the stage for comparison, but Cholowsky’s performance clearly stands out this season. Other notable finalists included:
- Wehiwa Aloy (Arkansas)
- Aiva Arquette (Oregon State)
- Matt King (Arizona State)
- Alex Lodise (Florida State)
Celebrating a Stellar Year in College Baseball
“What an incredible year it has been for shortstops in college baseball,” commented Larry Wallace, Chair of the Brooks Wallace Award. “We are proud to have Roch as our winner. He transformed a team with a losing record into competitors who made it to Omaha this year. Cholowsky epitomizes the qualities we look for in representing this award, with impressive leadership, defensive brilliance, and powerful offensive stats. Welcome to the Wallace family, Roch!”
Cholowsky’s Impressive Stats
Roch Cholowsky has not only impressed with his leadership on the field but also through remarkable statistics:
- Batting Average: .367
- Home Runs: 23 (the most by a Bruin since 2000)
- RBIs: 73
- On-Base Percentage (OBP): .494
- Stolen Bases: 7-for-8
In defense, he has committed only seven errors across 297 chances, contributing to an impressive .976 fielding percentage and being involved in 47 double plays. With the College World Series (CWS) on the horizon, UCLA is set to face Murray State in the opening round on Saturday at 2 p.m. CT.
All-American Honors and Contributions
Cholowsky’s efforts have not gone unnoticed; he earned first-team All-America honors from Perfect Game and second-team recognition from the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA). The Arizona native has become the first non-freshman position player from UCLA to achieve All-American status since JT Schwartz in 2023. With a team record of 47-16, Cholowsky has been pivotal in helping UCLA achieve its highest win total since their remarkable 2019 season.
Coach’s Praise and Recognition
“Roch has been one of the most consistent players in the country this season, making a significant impact on both sides of the ball,” praised John Savage, UCLA’s head baseball coach. “His passion for greatness, combined with an unwavering commitment to winning, sets him apart.”
The Brooks Wallace Award’s History
Since its inception in 2004, the Brooks Wallace Award has evolved, previously recognizing the National Player of the Year until 2009. The award continues to honor the next generation of baseball stars.
Looking Forward
As the College Baseball Foundation continues to celebrate the rich history of the sport, the Brooks Wallace Award serves as a testament to the legacy of Brooks Wallace and the athletes who follow in his footsteps.
To learn more about the College Baseball Foundation, check out their website.
Conclusion
Roch Cholowsky’s impressive season is a celebration of skill, leadership, and dedication, marking a new chapter not just in his career, but in the illustrious history of UCLA baseball. As he and his team gear up for the College World Series, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see what this star athlete accomplishes next.
