Nebraska standout shortstop has found his professional opportunity after the 2026 MLB Draft, agreeing to a free-agent contract with the New York Mets after going unselected on Monday.
He becomes the third Cornhuskers player to join a Major League organization following the draft. Earlier, right-handed pitcher Ty Horn was taken 94th overall by the Cincinnati Reds in the third round, while catcher Carson Jasa went four picks later at No. 98 to the Chicago Cubs.
The senior shortstop wrapped up an exceptional final collegiate season with a long list of accolades. Carey captured the prestigious Brooks Wallace Award, earned All-America honors, was named to the College Baseball Foundation’s First Team All-America squad, claimed Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, and secured First-Team All-Big Ten recognition.
At the plate, Carey delivered one of the best seasons of his career, batting .353 while collecting 85 hits, including 16 doubles, two triples, and 15 home runs. He also drove in 65 runs and scored 53 times, showcasing the all-around production that helped earn him a chance to begin his professional career with the Mets.
The Castle Rock, Colorado, native concluded his collegiate career by becoming Nebraska’s all-time leader in career doubles (63) and was the ninth Husker in program history to reach 200 career hits, 150 runs and 150 RBIs. He also ranks fourth all-time in program history in hits (266), fifth in games played (235), sixth in total bases (439), seventh in hit by pitches (43) and assists (542) and 10th in RBIs (167).
