Collin Brightwell, a high school outfielder from Georgia, became a late addition to Vanderbilt baseball’s 2025 class as he announced his commitment via social media Aug. 5.
Brightwell is the No. 466 player in the class of 2025, according to Perfect Game.
After six high school commits signed in the MLB draft, the Commodores had just two position players in their incoming freshmen class: catcher Korbin Reynolds and utilityman Carson Quillen. Brightwell gives them a third and one who adds help at a position of need. Before Brightwell’s commitment, Vanderbilt had just three true outfielders on its 2026 roster: Washington State transfer Logan Johnstone, Iowa Central Community College transfer Cade Sears and redshirt freshman Will Hampton. However, there are a few other returners on the roster who have experience playing the outfield along with the infield, including sophomore Rustan Rigdon and junior Braden Holcomb.
Brightwell is a 6-foot-1, 165-pound switch-hitter who is best known for his plus speed and defense in center field. He was committed to Oklahoma but decommitted in October.
Aria Gerson covers Vanderbilt athletics for The Tennessean. Contact her at agerson@gannett.com or on X @aria_gerson.