Chances Dugas returns next year?

Better chance now than I would have given it before the season.

Given he missed so much time, I think it’s a strong possibility. Jay talking to Dugas about playing third next year makes me think it’s definitely on the table

I hope so, he is one of the leaders

Project he’s got 2 more years of eligibility right?

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I think he returns and plays either 2nd or 3rd however it’s not like him and JJ got off to a good start, he was batting 7th and 8th and getting removed late in games after being one of the best hitters in the SEC last year

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I don't think Dugas cares about that kind of thing. He's a team player that will do whatever he needs to for the team. He was asked to play a role down in the order, to get on base anyway anyhow, the dirty work. And he did it well.

To the OP, I lean heavily toward Dugas returning. Even if he goes nuts down the stretch, I still think he's looking at about the same draft stock as he did last year and would after next year.

With only 1 year left I dont see why Dugas would want to return knowing he would likely be signing a nothing bonus deal the following draft...thats assuming he could get a few hundred grand this year which I think he could.

That being said, if Johnson can make it happen, a strong NIL deal could be enough to get him to stay after missing so much time this season.

Returning Morgan, Crews, Dugas and Pearson solidifies the top of the lineup already. Thompson right there next as well.

Selfishly I want Doughty back too since he has 2 years left but he will be a 2nd round pick probably.

NIL may play a part. But, Jay pitches development that helps guys jump faster to a pro contract instead of worrying about that initial signing bonus. Develop here with me and in the SEC instead of being a number in a farm system and you'll blow through the ranks faster. We'll see.

I know it sounds crazy, but I'm not writing Doughty off just yet. His stock is sky high and it doesn't make a ton of sense to pass up the kind of money he'd get up front, but we're really just scratching the surface of Jay's pitch and also in the NIL world, etc. Again, we'll see.

I think so, he’s not really much of a prospect. I do get that done kids want to take their shot though

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NIL may play a part.

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I think where NIL plays a part if for guys like him that aren't going to get a huge bonus (likely a max of $125k if drafted, much lower max amount if UDFA). The odds of making the majors won't materially change for him if he goes after this season or after next season. By staying, he guarantees another year of baseball. He has the chance to finish out his degree. And now, because of NIL, would do so without having to come out of pocket for school (if we're doing NIL correctly).

With smaller minor leagues, fringe guys like Dugas stand to benefit from NIL but will also improve the overall quality of college baseball and probably spread talent around as roster limits come back into play.