Iowa Infielder Ben Swails Transfers to Auburn Baseball
Former Iowa Hawkeyes infielder Ben Swails is taking his talents to the SEC. Swails committed to the Auburn Tigers, becoming the latest piece in head coach Butch Thompson's push for a 2027 College World Series run. The senior infielder brings a reliable bat to an already loaded Auburn roster that fell just short of the ultimate stage this past season.
Why did Ben Swails leave Iowa for Auburn?
In today's free market of college athletics, players have the liberty to find the best fit for their talents. Swails recorded a strong .343 batting average in 43 games for Iowa last season. He entered the transfer portal and found a new home in the premier baseball conference in the country. For Swails, the move represents an opportunity to test his skills against the best pitching in college baseball. For Iowa fans, it is a tough loss of a proven senior hitter.
How does Swails fit into Auburn's 2027 lineup?
Auburn lost to Ole Miss in the Super Regionals at Plainsman Park, marking their second consecutive home loss in that round. Despite the tough ending, the Tigers return plenty of firepower. Key returners at the plate include Chase Fralick, Ethin Bingaman, and the McCraine twins, Brandon and Mason. On the mound, Jake Marciano and Andreas Alvarez both finished with an ERA under four, while Jackson Sanders anchored the bullpen.
Because the Tigers already have a strong core, Thompson did not need to chase headline-grabbing transfers. He just needed to fill specific holes left by potential MLB-drafted players. Swails fits that mold perfectly. He could serve as a versatile gadget piece across the infield or act as a reliable late-game bat who knows how to get on base.
What other transfers did Auburn add?
Swails is one of five transfers Auburn picked up in the first three weeks of the portal period. The Tigers also added South Alabama reliever Zach Stevens, who brings a strong 2.53 ERA to the bullpen. Stevens provides valuable experience and flexibility, especially if Alex Petrovic decides to head to the MLB Draft after attending the combine next week.
The pitching additions continued with lefty Jack Pezzolo and Arizona transfer Corey Kling. Pezzolo, a rising sophomore from UC Davis, recorded a 3.35 ERA across 43 innings last season. Thompson hopes Pezzolo can make a leap similar to Marciano, who became the team's ace. Kling posted a 4.52 ERA for the Wildcats, but he delivered 12 scoreless appearances out of the 19 innings he played.
At the plate, the Tigers grabbed Georgia State outfielder John Beverley. Beverley hit .364 and stole 35 bases last season. He also brings two seasons of eligibility, giving Auburn a potential leadoff option if he adjusts to SEC pitching.
Is Auburn a contender for the 2027 College World Series?
The Tigers did not need a massive overhaul to stay competitive. They kept their core intact and targeted specific needs in the transfer portal. By adding experienced arms and contact hitters like Swails, Auburn positioned itself as a serious contender for 2027. Thompson's strategy focused on smart, targeted additions rather than flashy signings, which is exactly what the team needed to get over the hump.
What was Ben Swails' batting average at Iowa?
Ben Swails recorded a .343 batting average during his last season with the Iowa Hawkeyes, playing in 43 games.
Who are Auburn's key returning players?
Auburn returns key hitters Chase Fralick, Ethin Bingaman, Brandon McCraine, and Mason McCraine. On the mound, Jake Marciano, Andreas Alvarez, and Jackson Sanders are back.
Did Auburn add any pitchers in the transfer portal?
Yes. The Tigers added three pitchers: Zach Stevens from South Alabama, Jack Pezzolo from UC Davis, and Corey Kling from Arizona.