The College World Series is set to begin this weekend after an intense season of games. Four of the final eight teams belong to the SEC. In addition, the Florida Gators are the only non-seeded team in the CWS, while the others are the top three national seeds.
Here's a look at three pitchers who can make a difference in Omaha.
Three pitchers who can make an impact in the 2024 College World Series
#1, Ryan Prager, Texas A&M
The left-handed pitcher has made quite the comeback in NCAA baseball. After missing his sophomore season due to Tommy John surgery, he has established himself as one of the strongest pitchers in the field of eight in Omaha this season.
The redshirt sophomore has 114 strikeouts with an ERA of 3.10 in 87.0 innings this season. With a 93 mph fastball and a high release point, he will be a pitcher whom opponents will fear in Omaha.
#2, Brandon Neely, Florida
While Jac Caglianone has been the headline act for the Florida Gators, Neely's capabilities on the mound have not gone unnoticed. The junior has evolved into a reliable closer, recording 93 strikeouts in 71.0 innings.
Although it's unlikely he may start a game in Omaha, his skills will be crucial to helping the Gators make it out of Bracket 2. They will need to stop letting runs flow, and Neely will be a key figure in that aspect given their bullpen lacks depth.
#3, Drew Beam, Tennessee
AJ Causey's injury struggles have seen Beam become a reliable starting pitcher for Tony Vitello's team. He has 85 strikeouts and an ERA of 4.44 in 93.1 innings, highlighting the junior's importance to the Volunteers.
Their loss to Evansville in Game 2 of the Knoxville Super Regional highlighted their minor pitching weaknesses. While the top national seed has a powerful hitting lineup, it will need Beam to be at the top of his game to avoid such hiccups while attempting to win their maiden College World Series title.
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