Southern Miss Pitcher Colby Allen Expected to Sign with Tampa Bay Rays

Hattiesburg, Miss. — Colby Allen, a right-handed pitcher who played four seasons at the University of Southern Mississippi, is expected to sign a free agent contract with the Tampa Bay Rays, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.

Allen finished his college career among the school’s leaders in appearances, wins, and saves. He made 92 appearances, ranking fifth in school history, and recorded 24 wins and 21 saves, placing him fourth and fifth on the career lists, respectively. The two-time All-American and three-time ABCA All-South Regional selection also earned second-team All-Sun Belt honors and was a member of the Sun Belt All-Tournament team this spring.

During his senior year, Allen transitioned from a starter to a high-leverage reliever. He appeared in 24 games with five starts, posting a 7-2 record with a 3.05 ERA and two saves. He struck out 90 batters and walked 18 in 73 2/3 innings. Overall, in 220 career innings, Allen recorded 264 strikeouts and 57 walks.

In his final college season, Allen faced All-American Jackson Flora from UC Santa Barbara in the season opener, allowing three runs on eight hits over five innings with no walks and three strikeouts. He pitched at least five innings in four of his five starts, including a six-inning win against North Alabama in March. Allen also pitched six innings in relief during the Sun Belt Tournament, allowing two runs (one earned) on seven hits with six strikeouts in a win over Troy to help Southern Miss reach the championship game.

Throughout the season, Allen registered a season-high seven strikeouts in two games, against Appalachian State and ULM. He also won seven decisions in a row at one point. His performance earned him the opportunity to pursue a professional career alongside teammate Joey Urban, who was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the ninth round.

Allen’s signing marks a significant step in his baseball career, following the recent MLB draft where Urban was selected. The move to the Rays offers Allen a chance to advance in professional baseball.

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