The USF Bulls are 20-9 (5-1) on the year, coming off of a series win over Notre Dame over the weekend. A big part to the success of the Bulls early this season is the strong play of the young freshmen on the team that continue to step up when it matters most.
RHP Devin Smith (5-11 185-pounds) has worked in 4 games, pitching a total of 8 innings, allowing 11 hits, 3 runs, walking 2 and has struck out 6 batters and got a spot start last week in the win over FAMU, showing his maturation and the faith that Prado has in him. While Smith comes along, it is the young bats that are making the most noise.
3B Zac Gilcrease (6-2 175-pounds) has started in 5 games, playing in 8 total (just now getting on field). He is off to a hot start, batting .368 (7 of 19) with 2 doubles and has drove in 3 RBIs, showing great potential at the hot corner. Utility player Buddy Putnam (6-3 185-pounds) is batting .280 with 7 RBIs, playing at 1st base or wherever Prado needs him to step in. Catcher Blake Sydeski (6-3 215-pounds) has made 4 starts, batting .308 with 2 RBIs in his limited action. The biggest impact freshman is Kyle Teaf (5-9 176-pounds) who continues to make the start at short stop (has started 22 games). He is batting .266 with 3 doubles and has driven in 6 runs, going 2 for 3 in the steal department. He is solid and defense and continues to get better at the plate.
The young freshman continue to make an impact as the Bulls continue to win clutch games. The team will need the young players to help produce along with the veteran players to help the team reach the Big East tournament and hopefully beyond.
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