FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — In a strategic move to bolster their outfield lineup, the Arkansas Razorbacks have secured the commitment of Maika Niu, a versatile outfielder and utility player from Marshall University. The announcement was initially made by the Falmouth Commodores on X, Niu’s summer league team in the esteemed Cape Cod League.
Niu’s transfer to Arkansas follows a productive junior season with the Marshall Thundering Herd, where he posted a batting average of .276, an on-base percentage of .343, and a slugging percentage of .560. His impressive stats include 15 home runs, 52 RBIs, and 14 stolen bases. This performance has made him eligible for the upcoming MLB Draft, having already completed three collegiate seasons, the first two at the University of New Orleans.
Versatility and Potential
A native of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, Niu is known for his positional versatility, a quality that draws comparisons to former Razorback Peyton Holt. During his tenure at New Orleans, he showcased his adaptability by playing at least one game in five different positions, including all three outfield spots. In 2024, he predominantly played corner infield positions, starting 24 games at first base and 19 at third base. In 2025, he transitioned to shortstop for Marshall, starting all 58 games but struggled defensively with 33 errors, resulting in a fielding percentage of .889.
However, Niu has since returned to the outfield with the Falmouth Commodores, where he has started all 17 games in center field without committing an error, highlighting his defensive improvement.
Performance in the Cape Cod League
Ranked as the No. 3 outfield prospect in Pennsylvania and No. 13 overall for the class of 2022 by Perfect Game, Niu is making a significant impact in the Cape Cod League. He leads the league with six home runs in just 66 at-bats, two more than any other player, and is tied for fifth in stolen bases with eight, having been caught only twice. His performance underscores his comprehensive skill set and potential for the Razorbacks.
“Niu is hitting the cover off the ball so far in the Cape Cod League, widely regarded as the best summer ball league for college players.”
Implications for the Razorbacks
The addition of Niu comes at a critical time for the Razorbacks, as their outfield lineup remains uncertain pending the MLB Draft. Logan Maxwell, who transferred from TCU for his senior season, has exhausted his eligibility. Meanwhile, Charles Davalan is anticipated to sign as a high draft pick, being ranked in the Top 60 of the MLB Pipeline Top 200 List. Justin Thomas Jr. is also draft-eligible, potentially leaving three outfield positions vacant for the third consecutive season.
Niu is the second outfielder to join Arkansas from this year’s Division I transfer portal, alongside Zack Stewart from Missouri State. The Razorbacks’ head coach, Dave Van Horn, faces the challenge of rebuilding a dynamic outfield as players finalize their decisions post-draft.
Looking Ahead
As the MLB Draft approaches, Niu’s decision to join Arkansas reflects his confidence in the Razorbacks’ program and his desire to further develop his skills under the guidance of Coach Van Horn. The team will closely monitor the draft outcomes to strategize their lineup for the upcoming season.
With Niu’s addition, Arkansas aims to maintain its competitive edge in college baseball, leveraging his versatility and proven track record to navigate the challenges of roster changes and draft uncertainties.
