Georgia’s Ryland Zaborowski Earns 2025 Perfect Game First Team All-American Honors, Joins Burnett and Alford on All-Region Team

Ryland Zaborowski has etched his name into Georgia Bulldogs baseball history with a remarkable season that earned him 2025 Perfect Game First Team All-American honors. A graduate transfer from Gilbert, Arizona, Zaborowski showcased a rare blend of power, patience, and production that not only elevated his individual resume but also brought national attention to Georgia’s lineup. In addition to his All-American nod, he was named to the ABCA/Rawlings Southeast All-Region team, joining fellow Bulldogs Robbie Burnett and Slate Alford in earning that prestigious recognition.

Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 250 pounds, Zaborowski was a force at the plate from the start of the season. As the team’s designated hitter, he led Georgia with a .370 batting average, an eye-popping .788 slugging percentage, and a .500 on-base percentage. His combination of plate discipline and raw power made him one of the most feared hitters in college baseball. In just 45 games, Zaborowski launched 17 home runs and drove in 61 runs, often delivering in the biggest moments of the season.

Zaborowski’s ability to impact games with one swing was apparent every time he stepped into the batter’s box. Pitchers had to be precise and cautious when facing him, as any mistake over the plate was liable to end up in the outfield seats. What made his numbers even more impressive was the consistency he maintained throughout the season. Zaborowski didn’t go on hot streaks—he simply remained hot. Whether it was early March matchups or pivotal SEC battles, he continued to produce at an elite level.

While his power numbers were outstanding, it was Zaborowski’s all-around approach that truly separated him from his peers. The .500 on-base percentage speaks volumes about his discipline and vision. He wasn’t just hunting home runs—he was a complete hitter. Drawing walks, working deep counts, and adjusting to different pitching styles showed a maturity honed through years of experience. That patience allowed the Bulldogs to keep innings alive and gave protection to the hitters behind him in the lineup.

Zaborowski’s contributions extended beyond the numbers. As a graduate student, he brought leadership and poise to a program that benefitted from his maturity. Teammates often praised his work ethic and preparation, noting that he led by example during practice and in the clubhouse. Coaches relied on him not just for production but for guidance and accountability among a young and hungry roster.

Recognition from Perfect Game as a First Team All-American puts Zaborowski in elite company. Perfect Game is one of the most respected scouting services in amateur baseball, and their All-American teams represent the best of the best. Being named as the designated hitter on the First Team highlights just how dominant Zaborowski was in his role—especially in a year with several top-tier offensive players across the nation.

Zaborowski was not the only Georgia standout to earn postseason accolades. He was joined by right-handed pitcher Robbie Burnett and third baseman Slate Alford on the ABCA/Rawlings Southeast All-Region squad. For the Bulldogs, having three players recognized at the regional level is a testament to the depth and talent of their 2025 roster. The ABCA (American Baseball Coaches Association) and Rawlings have long partnered to spotlight the best players across each region of the country, and Georgia’s trio stood out in the competitive Southeast.

Burnett provided Georgia with quality innings throughout the season and became a key part of the weekend rotation. Known for his command and pitch efficiency, Burnett consistently kept opposing offenses off balance. While not a strikeout machine, he pitched to contact effectively and gave his defense a chance to make plays behind him. His poise on the mound and ability to execute in high-pressure situations earned him well-deserved recognition on the All-Region team.

Slate Alford, meanwhile, was one of the most dependable bats in Georgia’s infield. Playing third base, Alford combined defensive reliability with offensive output, providing clutch hits and consistent at-bats. His presence in the middle of the lineup gave the Bulldogs an anchor at the hot corner and a steady contributor on both sides of the ball. Like Zaborowski, Alford’s experience and leadership were invaluable to the team’s chemistry and focus.

For Georgia, the recognition of Zaborowski, Burnett, and Alford reflects a program that has made significant strides in player development and performance. Head coach Scott Stricklin and his staff have placed a strong emphasis on building a roster with both talent and character. The individual honors not only reward the players for their hard work but also serve as an indicator of the program’s trajectory.

Zaborowski’s story, in particular, is one of perseverance and peak performance. Coming into the 2025 season as a graduate transfer, he had expectations but wasn’t necessarily on the national radar. By midseason, however, his numbers and highlight-reel home runs had made him a fixture in national college baseball coverage. Scouts took notice, and he became a name often mentioned in discussions surrounding the upcoming MLB Draft.

His offensive explosion was complemented by a calm, steady demeanor. He never chased numbers or let pressure affect his performance. Instead, he remained committed to his process—staying late after practice for extra swings, studying pitchers, and maintaining a balanced routine. That consistency carried over into every aspect of his game and rubbed off on teammates who watched his dedication closely.

Zaborowski’s presence also allowed Georgia to stretch its offensive strategy. With him locking down the designated hitter role, the coaching staff had more flexibility with the rest of the lineup. His ability to drive in runs, extend innings, and draw attention from opposing pitchers created opportunities for others to step up. His protection in the lineup gave hitters before and after him more favorable pitches to hit, further enhancing the Bulldogs’ offensive output.

As the season concluded, Zaborowski’s numbers spoke for themselves, but the broader impact he had on Georgia baseball is perhaps even more lasting. He elevated expectations, led with integrity, and performed with excellence. The accolades from Perfect Game and the ABCA/Rawlings All-Region committee cement his place as one of the program’s standout players of the decade.

Burnett and Alford also carry that legacy forward, helping to establish a foundation that future Bulldogs can build on. Their contributions, both tangible and intangible, will be remembered by fans, coaches, and teammates alike. Georgia’s strong showing in 2025, backed by these three standouts, offers a glimpse of what’s possible when talent, hard work, and leadership come together.

Looking ahead, the trio’s recognition brings well-earned attention to the Georgia program. For Zaborowski, the All-American honor will likely serve as a launchpad into professional baseball. His tools, size, and production make him an intriguing prospect for MLB organizations. While his time at Georgia may have been brief, it was undoubtedly impactful.

In the ever-evolving landscape of college baseball, where players move frequently and rosters shift rapidly, Ryland Zaborowski’s season serves as a reminder of the kind of impact one player can make in a short amount of time. His bat powered the Bulldogs. His leadership steadied them. And now, with national recognition to his name, Zaborowski has left behind a legacy defined by excellence.

Georgia baseball, once again, finds itself in the national spotlight thanks to players like Zaborowski, Burnett, and Alford—players whose talent and determination helped elevate the program and inspire the next wave of Bulldogs looking to follow in their footsteps.