Coming back from a 28-28 record last season, Auburn baseball is projected to return to Plainsman Park a stronger team, starting with their opener Friday, Feb. 13 against Binghamton.
Head coach Sunny Galloway said things are different this season for his players.
"Our attitude and our effort have been outstanding," Golloway said. "This is a special group. They're a close-knit bunch, and they'll do what you ask."
Through practices, Golloway said he believes the team has worked hard to fill the gaps in pitching as well as infield positioning.
As far as starting pitchers go, Golloway said he has a strong group lined up that should be able to get the job done.
"We've identified Keegan (Thompson) as our No. 1," Golloway said. "There's four of five guys that can win the other starting roles... Our pitching has been pretty special."
In addition to his pitching squad, Golloway introduced a way to save time when switching pitchers off the mound.
"When you inner squad and you've got somebody like Keegan pitching, you do what we call in practice," Golloway said. "You just turn it over."
Additionally, Golloway said he has decided to count Thompson's pitches during game time to make sure he gets full rest and can perform to his best ability.
"That [pitch counting] would keep him in a pre-season type form before we really turn him loose," Golloway said.
Coming back from an injury last season, Thompson said he believes this new system will benefit his performance.
"Getting hurt was probably one of the better things that happened," Thompson said. "It gave me time to rest and recover."
In regard to the rest of the team's starting lineup, Golloway said he has worked in the infield with Kyler Deese at first base, Melvin Gray at second base and Alex Polston at third. A new addition to the team, Cody Nulph, will take the shortstop position. Coming from Orange Coast College, Nulph has Division I experience to bring to the team.
"I think it helps me out a lot," Nulph said. "You really know what to expect just because I've been there, and I think that's really gonna help me this year."
Returning starters will play outfield this season, including Jordan Ebert in right field, Anfernee Grier at center field, and either Sam Gillikin or Bo Decker in left field.
Although Golloway said he is hopeful for the opening series, the team still has work to do.
"We're not where we want to be, but we're not where we used to be," Golloway said.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
