Niagara University, NY - Former Purple Eagle Eric Rataczak was named the 2025-26 Australian Baseball League MVP.

In 38 regular season games, Rataczak hit .336, with seven home runs and three stolen bases. His 19 extra-base hits were tied for the league lead.

Rataczak played for the Sydney Blue Sox that posted the league's best overall record but fell in the championship.

The Circle Pines, MN native, was drafted by the Miami Marlins in 2024 and appeared in three minor league levels where he will be returning for the 2026 season.

Rataczak was a focal point of the 2024 MAAC Championship Team and was the 2024 MAAC Player of the Year and a unanimous All-MAAC First Team member.