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5 Key Facts About Eli Gries-Smith: The NJCAA All-American Outfielder Headed To Oregon State

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As of late 2025, Eli Gries-Smith has emerged as one of college baseball's most compelling transfer stories, solidifying his status as a top outfielder after a sensational junior college and Division I season. The dynamic right-handed hitter has transitioned from earning national recognition at the junior college level to committing to a premier Power Five program, setting the stage for a highly anticipated final collegiate campaign. This article provides the most current and in-depth look at the player who has become a significant addition to the Oregon State Beavers' roster. The journey of the New Jersey native through the collegiate ranks—from Bevill State to Monroe College, then to a standout D1 year at Arkansas-Pine Bluff—is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence and a clear indicator of his potential future in professional baseball.

Eli Gries-Smith: Complete Player Profile & Biography

Eli Gries-Smith is a highly-rated collegiate outfielder known for his consistent hitting, speed on the basepaths, and defensive versatility. His career has been marked by continuous improvement and a knack for performing at the highest level of competition.

  • Full Name: Eli Gries-Smith
  • Date of Birth: June 19, 2003
  • Age (as of Dec 2025): 22
  • Hometown: Keyport, New Jersey
  • High School: Matawan Regional High School (Aberdeen, N.J.)
  • Primary Position: Outfielder (Center Field/Right Field)
  • Bats/Throws: Right/Right (R/R)
  • Height: 6'2"
  • Weight: 200 lbs
  • Collegiate Career Path: Bevill State Community College (2023) -> Monroe College (2024) -> University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff (2025) -> Oregon State University (2026)

The Breakout 2024 NJCAA All-American Season at Monroe College

Gries-Smith's baseball career took a major leap forward during the 2024 season while playing for the Monroe College Mustangs. His performance was so dominant that it earned him one of the highest honors in junior college baseball: selection as a 2024 NJCAA Division I Baseball All-American.

This recognition is reserved for the elite players in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and immediately put him on the radar of top-tier NCAA Division I programs. The sophomore right fielder was a crucial component of the Mustangs’ success, showcasing a powerful combination of plate discipline, gap power, and defensive prowess. His ability to produce consistently against strong competition proved he was ready for the next challenge in his collegiate journey.

The standout season at Monroe College served as the perfect springboard, demonstrating his capability to thrive under pressure and become a key contributor on a national stage. This success ultimately led to his transfer to the Division I level, where he continued to excel.

Dominating the D1 Level: Arkansas-Pine Bluff and the SWAC

Following his All-American season, Eli Gries-Smith successfully made the jump to NCAA Division I baseball, transferring to the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff (UAPB) Golden Lions for his junior season. His impact was immediate and substantial in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).

In the 2025 season with the UAPB Golden Lions, Gries-Smith played in and started 54 games, establishing himself as the team's offensive leader. His final stat line was a clear indication of his all-around ability:

  • Batting Average: .346
  • Hits: 73
  • Doubles: 16
  • Triples: 3
  • Home Runs: 2
  • Runs Batted In (RBI): 45
  • Stolen Bases: 15 (in 18 attempts)

His .346 batting average led the team, and he was among the conference leaders in multiple offensive categories, further cementing his reputation as a reliable and clutch hitter. This performance at the D1 level was the final piece of evidence that powerhouse programs needed to see, leading to one of the biggest moves of his career.

The Next Chapter: Committing to the Oregon State Beavers

The culmination of Gries-Smith’s exceptional junior college and Division I seasons was his commitment to the Oregon State University (OSU) Beavers. Oregon State is a perennial national contender, and his transfer is a high-profile acquisition for the program, which is preparing for the 2026 season.

The move to the Pac-12 (and soon-to-be Big Ten) conference represents the ultimate challenge and opportunity for Gries-Smith. He will be competing against the nation's best collegiate pitchers, a perfect proving ground to showcase his MLB Draft potential. The Beavers' coaching staff, known for developing professional talent, will look to Gries-Smith to immediately contribute as a starting outfielder and a potent middle-of-the-order bat.

His defensive range in center field and his high on-base percentage—bolstered by 25 walks during his UAPB season—make him an ideal fit for a program that relies on strong defense and manufacturing runs.

Summer Ball and Continued Development

Like many top collegiate players, Gries-Smith has also sought out high-level competition during the summer months to hone his skills. He spent time playing in the highly respected New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL), a summer wood-bat league designed for top college prospects.

While his initial statistics in the NECBL were noted as a struggle, with a 4-for-32 line at one point, summer leagues are often more focused on development and adjusting to wood bats rather than pure statistics. Exposure to this level of pitching is crucial for players preparing for the rigors of a Power Five conference schedule. This commitment to challenging himself in the summer demonstrates the work ethic and dedication that has fueled his rapid ascent through the collegiate baseball landscape.

In summary, Eli Gries-Smith’s career trajectory is a compelling narrative of a player who maximized his opportunities at every level. From NJCAA All-American to a D1 star, his commitment to the Oregon State Beavers places him squarely in the spotlight as one of the most exciting players to watch in the upcoming 2026 college baseball season.

5 Key Facts About Eli Gries-Smith: The NJCAA All-American Outfielder Headed to Oregon State
eli gries smith baseball
eli gries smith baseball

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