The USC Upstate Spartans baseball team is gearing up for another exciting season, and fans are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to watch their favorite players in action. With a talented roster and a challenging schedule, the Spartans are poised to make a strong run in the Big South Conference. Here are five USC Upstate baseball players to watch this season:
1. Starting Pitcher: Jacob Thiessen
Jacob Thiessen is a key component of the Spartans' starting rotation. The senior right-hander has been a stalwart on the mound, providing a steady presence and a wealth of experience. Thiessen has a strong arsenal of pitches, including a fastball that can touch the mid-90s. He's a competitor who always seems to rise to the occasion, making him a must-watch this season.
Thiessen's Stats:
- 2022: 6-4, 4.22 ERA, 63 Ks in 74.1 IP
- Career: 18-14, 4.51 ERA, 201 Ks in 235.1 IP
2. Outfielder: Jaden Miller
Jaden Miller is a dynamic outfielder who brings a combination of speed, power, and defensive prowess to the table. The junior has been a sparkplug at the top of the Spartans' lineup, using his quickness to leg out extra-base hits and his strong arm to gun down baserunners. Miller is a threat to make a big play every time he steps onto the field.
Miller's Stats:
- 2022:.305 AVG, 5 HR, 25 RBI, 15 SB
- Career:.283 AVG, 10 HR, 50 RBI, 25 SB
3. Catcher: Jake Wyandt
Jake Wyandt is a rugged catcher who provides a steady presence behind the plate. The senior has been a defensive stalwart, throwing out a high percentage of baserunners and handling the pitching staff with ease. Wyandt is also a threat with the bat, possessing power and a keen eye for the strike zone.
Wyandt's Stats:
- 2022:.275 AVG, 4 HR, 25 RBI
- Career:.258 AVG, 10 HR, 60 RBI
4. Shortstop: Patrick, Crowley
Patrick Crowley is a slick-fielding shortstop who has been a mainstay in the Spartans' infield. The junior has a strong arm and quick reflexes, making him a valuable asset on defense. Crowley is also a threat with the bat, possessing a keen eye for the strike zone and the ability to drive the ball to all fields.
Crowley's Stats:
- 2022:.285 AVG, 2 HR, 20 RBI
- Career:.265 AVG, 5 HR, 40 RBI
5. Relief Pitcher: Trey Van Der Weide
Trey Van Der Weide is a hard-throwing relief pitcher who has been a dominant force in the Spartans' bullpen. The senior right-hander has a fastball that can touch the mid-90s and a slider that is nearly unhittable. Van Der Weide has been a shutdown closer, racking up saves and strikeouts with ease.
Van Der Weide's Stats:
- 2022: 2-1, 1.80 ERA, 12 SV, 35 Ks in 25.0 IP
- Career: 6-4, 2.50 ERA, 20 SV, 75 Ks in 65.0 IP
Who is the USC Upstate baseball team's ace pitcher?
+Jacob Thiessen is the USC Upstate baseball team's ace pitcher.
Who is the Spartans' top hitter?
+Jaden Miller is the Spartans' top hitter.
Who is the USC Upstate baseball team's closer?
+Trey Van Der Weide is the USC Upstate baseball team's closer.
With these five players leading the charge, the USC Upstate Spartans are poised for a successful season. Be sure to catch them in action and see the exciting brand of baseball they bring to the field.