Baseball
New Faces on the Mound: Three Key Additions to Rutgers Baseball's Pitching Staff for 2025
2025-01-21

As the Scarlet Knights prepare for their upcoming season, the team has undergone significant changes with a roster filled with fresh talent. Among the most notable additions are several new pitchers who will bolster the pitching staff. One of these standout transfers is left-handed pitcher Preston Prince. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-5 and weighing 240 pounds, Prince brings a wealth of experience from his time at Niagara University. Over two seasons there, he demonstrated both challenges and improvements. Initially struggling with control in his freshman year, Prince showed marked improvement by his sophomore year, striking out 33 batters in 38.1 innings. If he can refine his command, his three-pitch arsenal—including a mid-90s fastball—could make him a formidable presence on the mound for Rutgers.

The pitching staff also welcomes right-handed pitcher Mike Timberlake, who comes from Montclair State. Timberlake’s college career has been marked by steady growth and success. His sophomore season was particularly impressive, where he recorded an 8-2 record with a 2.69 ERA and struck out 85 batters in 83.2 innings. While Timberlake may initially be used in relief, his natural ability to induce weak contact and ground balls makes him a valuable asset. Additionally, his slider adds another dimension to the Scarlet Knights' pitching arsenal.

Dillon Ryan, a sixth-year senior from UMass-Boston, rounds out the trio of new pitching talent. Ryan’s journey from Division III to Division I showcases his resilience and adaptability. Over five seasons, he accumulated a respectable 12-8 record with 242 strikeouts in 183.2 innings pitched. Although he is expected to primarily serve in relief, Ryan’s experience and versatility could see him stepping into a starting role when needed. The addition of these three pitchers signals a promising start to Rutgers’ 2025 baseball campaign.

With these talented newcomers, Rutgers baseball is poised to strengthen its pitching depth and competitiveness. Each player brings unique skills and experiences that will contribute to the team’s overall success. As they integrate into the lineup, fans can look forward to witnessing the development and potential of this revamped pitching staff, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.

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