GAINESVILLE, Fla.– Florida Gators second baseman Cade Kurland on Monday revealed he was going to explore pro ball opportunities after four seasons with the program, but it sounded like there was an opportunity to return for his fifth season.
Instead, he made another move this week that almost solidifies that he will not be returning. On Friday evening, Kurland was reported to have entered the NCAA Transfer Portal, becoming the Gators’ first full-time starter to do so this year.
Florida second baseman Cade Kurland has entered the transfer portal after four years with the Gators. He hit .279/.384/.469 with nine home runs and seven doubles this year. Kurland said he wanted to pursue pro opportunities after Florida was eliminated. pic.twitter.com/Xk6AiQ1Rpj
— Jacob Rudner (@JacobRudner) June 6, 2026
Kurland’s move appears to be a leverage play ahead of the 2026 MLB Draft, which starts on July 11 after the portal closes on June 30, giving Kurland multiple options for his future. A portal entry also does not guarantee a departure from the program, if that is what Kurland and Florida ultimately decide to do…