NEWPORT, R.I. – Newport Gulls outfielder Matt Bolton has been named the 2025 NECBL Rookie of the Year, capping off a stellar debut summer in the New England Collegiate Baseball League.

Bolton closed the regular season with a .311 batting average, 6 home runs, and a league-leading 34 RBIs. While he did not hit a home run in July or August, Bolton’s consistent production at the plate fueled the Gulls offense all season. He finished the summer on a remarkable 40-game on-base streak, solidifying his role as one of the league’s toughest outs.

The Binghamton standout came into Newport riding the momentum of a record-breaking freshman campaign, setting the Bearcats’ single-season hits record and earning America East First Team All-Conference honors. In Newport, Bolton tied for the team lead in hits with 47, matching fellow Gull Michael Gupton.

As the Gulls’ leadoff hitter, Bolton also showcased his plate discipline, drawing a team-high 28 walks and finishing the regular season with a .428 on-base percentage.

Bolton becomes the eighth Newport player to win the NECBL Rookie of the Year Award and the first since Slate Alford claimed the honor in 2022.