Auburn Pitchers Graves and Marciano Solidify Weekend Starter Roles

Transfer infielder also heating up as Tigers prepare for new season

Jan. 30, 2026 at 7:55am

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The Auburn Tigers baseball team is seeing strong performances from a couple of pitchers who are emerging as weekend starters, as well as a transfer infielder who is heating up at the plate, as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

Why it matters

Establishing a reliable starting rotation and getting production from new additions to the lineup are critical for the Tigers as they look to build on their previous season and compete in the highly competitive SEC conference.

The details

Sophomore right-hander Caden Graves and junior college transfer Dominic Marciano have been impressive in preseason workouts and are expected to claim the Friday and Saturday starting roles for the Tigers. Meanwhile, transfer infielder Jayden Marcano has been swinging the bat well and is making a strong case for a starting job.

  • The Tigers are currently in the midst of their preseason training camp ahead of the 2026 season.

The players

Caden Graves

A sophomore right-handed pitcher who is emerging as the Friday night starter for the Tigers.

Dominic Marciano

A junior college transfer who is expected to claim the Saturday starting role for the Tigers.

Jayden Marcano

A transfer infielder who has been hitting well in preseason workouts and is making a push for a starting job.

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What they’re saying

“Caden and Dominic have really stepped up and shown they're ready to be our weekend starters. They've been throwing the ball great in practice.”

— Butch Thompson, Auburn Head Baseball Coach

“Jayden has been swinging a hot bat and making a strong case to be in our starting lineup. He's a talented player who is going to be a big addition for us.”

— Butch Thompson, Auburn Head Baseball Coach

What’s next

The Tigers will continue their preseason training camp and finalize their starting lineup and rotation ahead of their season opener on February 14th.

The takeaway

With key pitchers emerging and a talented transfer infielder making an impact, the Auburn Tigers appear to be building a strong foundation for the upcoming season as they look to compete in the SEC.