Eastern Kentucky University Athletics

AS A FRESHMAN IN 2026
Made six appearances and started once … went 0-1 … struck out two and walked nine in 6.0 innings … pitched an inning of scoreless relief against Morehead State (March 24) … tossed 1 1/3 innings of scoreless relief against Kentucky State (April 14) … made his first career start against Western Kentucky (April 21), and did not allow an earned run in two innings of work.

HIGH SCHOOL
Ranked as the No. 1 left-handed pitcher in Kentucky by Prep Baseball and Perfect Game … did not play his senior season due to an injury … first team all-district and second team all-city as a junior in 2024 … earned first team all-district, second team all-city and district all-tournament honors as a sophomore, finishing the season with 59 strikeouts in 40 1/3 innings.
 
PERSONAL
Son of Bob and Lindsey Payton … has one brother – Lincoln … major is undecided.