On February 14th, the Longhorns will take the field at Globe Life in Arlington for the first time under new Texas Head Coach Jim Schlossnagle. With just 21 days away from that first pitch, I spoke to a couple of sources to see where things stand.
Pitching:
Two players in particular have carved out starting roles on the mound. LHP Jared Spencer (Indiana State) looks to be your Friday starter, while LHP Luke Harrison will take the Saturday slot.
Spencer has been particularly impressive from what I've been told, with multiple people raving about his abilities. As for Harrison, it sounds like pitching coach Max Weiner has helped him come on really strong (get ready for one heck of a breaking ball).
Sunday and the weekday starter(s) are still up in the air at this time.
As for Ruger Riojas, I'm told that he's the best all around pitcher on the staff. Look for him to have a very similar role to what Evan Aschenbeck had for Texas A&M last season. He's hands down the best reliever, but may not be seen as a closer.
True freshmen Drew Rerick, Jason Flores and Dylan Volantis should all see playing time on the mound this season as well.
Fan favorite Ace Whitehead is still battling back from surgery recovery and there is no timetable for his return.
Projected Lineup:
Catcher - Ryan Galvan
1B - Kimble Schuessler
2B - Ethan Mendoza
3B - Adrian Rodriguez
SS - Jalin Flores
LF - Easton Winfield
CF - Will Gasparino
RF - Max Belyeu
It wasn't long ago that we weren't sure who will take the starting roles at 1B, 3B and CF, but I've been told that Schuessler, Rodriguez and Gasparino have came on strong.
As for Rodriguez, it sounds like he's the best freshman position player out of the bunch at this point. The staff loves that he's a switch hitter and have full faith in him, despite being new on campus.
Jonah Williams:
In case you missed my update on Williams from yesterday...
One source close to the baseball program told me that there is no definitive timetable for Williams return.
“I’m not sure. Hoping to be cleared for some stuff and we’ll go from there,” said the source.
Williams is doing certain work outs trying to balance being in both baseball and football shape at the same time.
He also works with both the football and baseball staff at different parts of the day.
As for where he’ll end up on the diamond, I’ve been told that will all work itself out as he continues to get healthier. On the mound or in the outfield are the two options, but the quicker path to earlier playing time will be pitching… for now.