The Tennessee Vols got a much-needed win last night against a struggling South Carolina squad, but it definitely wasn’t as comfortable as the final result may look. Even with South Carolina fighting for its season, Tennessee never really found a way to completely pull away. Freshman infielder Patrick Evans almost hit for the cycle, and Tennessee blew an early two-run lead but ultimately punched right back.
The latest NCAA baseball bracket projection is a dream scenario for Tennessee
The biggest bright spot was freshman pitcher Cameron Appenzeller. In just his second career start, Appenzeller gave the Vols 5.0 innings, allowed three runs, and struck out five hitters. Watching a freshman handle that kind of moment was impressive, and head coach Josh Elander was clearly happy with what he saw.
Elander had plenty of praise for Appenzeller after the game, saying:
"Incredibly confident. It's funny, you look on here, he's a very humble, hardworking kid. He's talking about not having his best stuff. But the guy's 5-1. Maybe his ERA isn't as pretty as it was a month or two ago. But last two games at OU and here tonight he gave us a chance to win an SEC game. And to be able to do that as a true freshman and grind through and just take the ball, again, he's been amazing for us all year long. I know you're never going to have success be completely linear for sure. But that guy's a winner and I'm glad he's on our team every day. And I'm thankful anytime I can hand him the ball."
Cameron Appenzeller is a star in the making
As we know, the Vols baseball program has a rich history of producing elite pitching talent, and I would not be surprised if Cameron Appenzeller is the next name on that list. The way he has performed as a freshman has been extremely impressive.
Like Josh Elander mentioned, the ERA may not jump off the page, but the underlying numbers are very encouraging. Appenzeller owns a strong 1.18 WHIP and averages over 10 strikeouts per nine innings. He also has 59 strikeouts compared to just 15 walks, which is outstanding for a freshman pitcher.
The advanced numbers for someone this early in his career show just how much potential he has. Honestly, his numbers may even compare favorably to what Tegan Kuhns posted last season.
Appenzeller wasn't the only freshman to step up yestrerday for Elander either.
Nate Eisfelder also delivered a huge moment with a two-out double in the bottom of the third that brought home two runs. Watching all of these freshmen contribute in big spots has to make Tennessee baseball fans excited about the future, especially considering the Vols are bringing in another loaded recruiting class.
Now, Tennessee gets a much tougher test against the Arkansas Razorbacks on Wednesday night in Hoover. Evan Blanco is expected to get the ball, and it should be a really fun matchup between two talented SEC teams.
If Tennessee can get the win, the Vols will have another showdown with Texas on Friday.
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