ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFKnights.com) – Collegiate Baseball announced its 2018 NCAA Division I Preseason All-Americans on Monday, and UCF pitcher Bryce Tucker was one of just 14 relievers to be honored, as he earned third-team laurels. Tucker was the only relief pitcher selected from the American Athletic Conference.
"I'm really excited for Bryce and all the accolades he has received the last six months," head coach Greg Lovelady said. "His work ethic is second to none, and he has earned everything he has received. I'm really proud of him for the strides he has made since we arrived. Coach Parker has played a huge role in his development, and we are looking forward to his continued success here at UCF and beyond."
Tucker was a force out of the bullpen in 2017. The Apopka, Fla., native registered a 1.66 ERA in 27 appearances with nine saves. Over 38 innings, Tucker fanned 55 batters, walked just 12 and held opponents off the scoreboard in 21 games. For his efforts, Tucker was named First Team All-Conference in The American.
The junior spent the summer with the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team. Tucker was a prominent feature out of the Team USA bullpen. Tucker struck out 13 batters with a flawless ERA in eight innings against Cuba, Japan and Chinese Taipei.
In addition to the preseason honors, Tucker was named the 86th ranked MLB Draft prospect by Baseball America last week.
The Knights open up the 2018 season at home with a three-game tournament against Virginia, Rice and Samford.
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