News release from Texas A&M Athletics:
WACO – Texas A&M reliever Grant Cunningham has been named a finalist for the inaugural Tony Gwynn Trophy, as announced by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association Wednesday afternoon.
The Gwynn Trophy, conceptualized for the 2025 season, is intended to honor collegiate baseball student-athletes who are active in their community and represent their programs with integrity, while exceling in the classroom and on the field.
“Grant’s commitment to community service is nothing short of remarkable,” said director of operations Jason Hutchins. “He has been an active member of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, but his influence extends far beyond that. Whether it’s leading service initiatives or stepping up to assist wherever needed, Grant has been instrumental in every service event organized throughout the fall and spring semesters. His work ethic, coupled with his genuine desire to give back, is something that stands out even among athletes of his caliber.”
Cunningham is in his first season with the Aggies after spending the prior two years as a key reliever for Washington. In six appearances this season, the right-hander has registered a 3.48 ERA in 10 1/3 innings of work to go along with five strikeouts. In the classroom, Cunningham is majoring in Business Administration and holds a 3.4 GPA.
Since coming to Aggieland, Cunningham has been a stalwart in the community. The junior serves as a member of the Texas A&M Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and helped push the AggiesCan initiative on the baseball program. He has also helped lead a PE class at Mary Branch Elementary, multiple youth baseball team’s practices in the area and has spoken with the A&M Consolidated High School baseball team about his faith journey.
In addition, Cunningham has been involved with Team Impact and cancer survivor, Gabriel, spending time with him and his family at Texas A&M baseball events. The right-hander has also developed a visitation program at Baylor Scott & White for the team to visit with patients every Monday.
“What truly sets Grant apart is his relentless pursuit of opportunities to serve,” said Hutchins. “He is in our office at least every other week, always asking how he can contribute further to making Bryan-College Station a better place. What is most inspiring about Grant is that he does not seek accolades or recognition for his efforts. He serves because he has a servant’s heart. His actions are driven purely by a deep commitment to the community, not by the desire to enhance his personal reputation.”
Tony Gwynn Trophy Starting 9
– Grant Cunningham, Jr., RHP, Texas A&M
– Michael Brooks, R-Sr., INF, Kansas
– Evan Byers, Gr., LHP, Kentucky
– Tony Castonguay, Sr., C/OF, Northern Colorado
– Connor Harris, Gr., RHP, Winthrop
– Joe Sheets, Sr., RHP, Columbia
– Austin Smith, Sr., LHP/OF, San Diego
– Chris Stanfield, Jr., OF, LSU
– Jose Torres, Sr., C, Louisiana
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