ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFKnights.com) – With the beginning of the Greg Lovelady era less than a week away, the Knights return some familiar faces as well as some sharp newcomers. Pitchers and catchers are no exception.
On the hill, senior Robby Howell looks to be the Friday night starter for the Black and Gold. Howell led all pitchers in the American Athletic Conference last season with a 1.96 ERA. Not far behind is fellow senior Juan Pimentel who established himself a year ago as a go-to workhorse for his squad.
The back end of the rotation is still up for grabs, but redshirt sophomore Chris Williams, and redshirt junior Jason Bahr are likely the lead candidates to fill the role. Senior Luke Hamblin, redshirt junior Jordan Scheftz, sophomore Bryce Tucker, and freshman Rylan Thomas look to be the top relievers coming out of the bullpen.
Behind the plate, junior Logan Heiser tops the depth chart with sophomore Anthony George and freshman Dallas Beaver also seeing time in a catch-by committee approach. Coach Lovelady stresses the importance of staying healthy and not putting the entire season's workload on one catcher.
"Having one guy do all the work is really dangerous," Lovelady said. "At the end of the year, I need [our guys] to be as healthy as possible."
Opening Knight
Opening Knight is set for Friday, Feb. 17 at the UCF Baseball Complex and is FREE to all fans. Complimentary parking is available in Garage F, Lot E8, or in the outfield lot for a $5 fee.
Purchase Tickets
Purchase season tickets for the 2017 UCF Baseball campaign now. Call 407-UCF-1000 or click here to guarantee your seats for head coach Greg Lovelady's first season with the Knights.
John Euliano Park Expansion
Click here to reserve your club seats and make a donation toward the John Euliano Park expansion.
