I’ve been a fan of Ole Miss baseball for as long as I can remember. The amazing talents that come from this program are truly awe-inspiring. I believe our university has a rich history of producing top baseball players. The 2023 MLB season further proves the Rebels’ ongoing success.
Currently, four former Ole Miss players are in the MLB: Lance Lynn, Drew Pomeranz, Nick Fortes, and Chad Smith.1 Furthermore, 22 former Rebels are in the Minor League Baseball. This shows the deep talent the program keeps creating.1 These numbers demonstrate the hard work and skill of the Rebels’ baseball alumni. They excel at the top levels of the sport.
Looking at the success of these Ole Miss stars, it’s obvious the university is a major player in baseball. Their influence goes beyond the field, encouraging future players.12 These players’ stories not only interest fans but also show the impact of the Ole Miss baseball program.
Rebels Shining in the Big Leagues
Lance Lynn’s Impressive MLB Career
Lance Lynn, a former Ole Miss pitcher, started his journey strong after joining the St. Louis Cardinals in 2008.3 Since then, he’s kept up his game, with his record now at 137-95. Although the 2023 season’s start was tough, Lynn’s skill and determination shine through. He shows why he’s a top player in Major League Baseball.
Nick Fortes’ Rise as a Reliable Catcher
Nick Fortes, from Ole Miss, now plays a vital role for the Miami Marlins after three MLB seasons.3 His batting average stands at .235, and he has hit 14 home runs with 36 RBIs. Not just an offensive player, Fortes is strong defensively, proving this season by catching runners stealing bases twice out of ten attempts.3 Fortes keeps getting better, showing the Marlins the strength of Ole Miss baseball players in the majors.
Chad Smith’s Resilient Journey
Chad Smith, an Ole Miss pitcher, has had a challenging path in the MLB but has shown great resilience.3 After moving from the Colorado Rockies to the Oakland Athletics, his 2023 season has been mix. His ERA is currently at 6.30 for the Athletics. Yet, his effort and passion have secured his spot on the team. He proves the spirit and ability of Ole Miss athletes in professional baseball.
Drew Pomeranz’s Comeback Trail
Drew Pomeranz, another Ole Miss pitcher, is fighting his way back into the major leagues after injury setbacks.3 He hasn’t played since two years ago due to surgeries and health issues. Although his return has been slow, with a recent delay due to a neck strain, Pomeranz’s commitment is unwavering3. He wants to not just recover but to excel again in professional baseball, a true testament to the passion and resilience of Ole Miss alumni.
Ole Miss Baseball Major League Players: Current Season Performances
Lance Lynn’s Struggles in 2023
Lance Lynn, once an Ole Miss pitcher, now plays for the White Sox. But he’s not performing as well this season. He started the season 0-4, showing a 6.41 ERA in his first six games.4 Lynn didn’t do so well with 26 runs scored against him, giving up 37 hits.
Out of these hits, 8 were home runs. He did strike out 42 and walked 15. The White Sox need Lynn to get back on track for the season to improve. This shows that pro baseball life isn’t always easy for Ole Miss’s players.
Nick Fortes’ Consistent Play
Nick Fortes, as an ex-Ole Miss catcher, proves to be steady for the Marlins. Despite hitting .222 with only 5 RBIs and a homer this season, his career stats are quite encouraging. He boasts a .235 batting average with 14 home runs overall.4 Plus, as a catcher, he’s caught 2 out of 10 runners attempting to steal.
Fortes might not be the flashiest player, but he sure is reliable. His role on the field proves Ole Miss players can be valuable without the spotlight.
Chad Smith’s Ups and Downs
The 2023 season has been a bit of a ride for Chad Smith, traded to the Athletics from the Rockies. He’s played in eight games, with a mixed bag of results, boasting a 6.30 ERA and a 1-1 record.4 In his 10 innings pitched, Smith let 7 runs through, off 11 hits. He struck out 6 but also walked 5.
Even with these challenges, Smith’s on the Athletics’ 40-man team. His showing reflects the dynamism of Ole Miss alumni in the big leagues.
Drew Pomeranz’s Injury Updates
Drew Pomeranz, another ex-Ole Miss pitcher, struggles with injury on the Padres’ list. He faced flexor tendon surgery and elbow trouble.4 A neck strain further delayed his return. Yet, Pomeranz aims to come back, showing the grit of Ole Miss players in pro baseball’s tough arena.
Ole Miss Baseball Alumni Thriving in the Minors
The success of Ole Miss baseball alumni is clear, not just in the major leagues. Many former Rebels are doing well in the minor leagues too. They’re getting closer to playing in the majors soon.5
Taylor Broadway’s AAA Dominance
Taylor Broadway, a past Ole Miss pitcher, is shining at the Triple-A level. He’s playing for the Worcester Red Sox, linked to the Boston Red Sox. This shows how well Ole Miss alumni are doing on their path to the majors.5
Grae Kessinger’s Promising Future
Grae Kessinger, who played for Ole Miss, is now with the Houston Astros. He started his MLB journey in June 2023. While his chances have been few till now, being on the Astros’ team highlights the promise of Ole Miss alumni in the minor leagues.5
Doug Nikhazy’s Eastern League Accolades
Doug Nikhazy, another Ole Miss pitcher, is in the Double-A Eastern League with the Akron RubberDucks. He’s made two outstanding starts, striking out 13 batters in 10 innings. These efforts won him the Eastern League Pitcher of the Week title. This, once again, demonstrates the skill of Ole Miss baseball alumni pushing towards the major leagues.5
The achievements of Ole Miss alumni in the minors show why it’s a top place for future baseball stars. As the 2023 season goes on, the performances of these former Rebels in the minors will draw attention. It’s stories like these that prove Ole Miss’ role in preparing players for the big leagues.567
Conclusion
This article shows how much Ole Miss baseball alumni are doing in the pros.8 Players like Lance Lynn and Nick Fortes are already stars. Young talents Grae Kessinger and Doug Nikhazy show a bright future.9
Ole Miss is known for producing great baseball players.8 The success of its alumni is a sign of the strong program there. With the 2023 season going on, fans can see more accomplishments from these players.10
Even though the team faced challenges this year, they are working hard to get back up.10 Adding new skilled players shows Ole Miss’ commitment to be the best. Stories of its former players doing well in the pros are a big motivation for the team and its fans.
Source Links
- https://www.on3.com/teams/ole-miss-rebels/news/ole-miss-in-the-mlb-checking-in-on-the-professional-baseball-rebels
- https://therebelwalk.com/2024/04/mlb-rebels-update-april-17-a-look-at-how-pro-ole-miss-players-are-doing-at-the-next-level
- https://247sports.com/college/ole-miss/article/lhp-hunter-elliott-going-through-2024-mlb-combine-along-with-three-rebel-signees–232856970/
- https://www.on3.com/teams/ole-miss-rebels/news/ole-miss-in-the-mlb-checking-in-on-the-professional-baseball-rebels/
- https://247sports.com/Article/Update-on-Ole-Miss-Rebels-in-Major-League-Baseball-Lance-Lynn-Drew-Pomeranz-SEC-MLB-151192714/
- https://shoresportsnetwork.com/baseball-2023-mlb-draft-preview-shore-conference-alums-await-the-call/
- http://www.thelocalvoice.net/oxford/sports-administration-program-at-ole-miss-sends-students-to-major-leagues/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ole_Miss_Rebels_baseball
- https://www.oxfordeagle.com/2018/06/06/james-mcarthur-starts-ole-miss-selections-on-final-day-of-mlb-draft/
- https://olemiss.rivals.com/news/giving-it-hell-how-ole-miss-baseball-used-the-portal-to-reset-its-roster
Meet Daniel Anderson, the heart and soul behind Baseball Pro Picks. At 49, Daniel’s life has revolved around baseball, a passion that’s as strong today as it was when he first fell in love with the game. Living in the USA, Daniel has dedicated countless hours to watching, analyzing, and understanding every pitch, hit, and home run, making almost no game missed. His deep-rooted love for the sport is matched only by his commitment to sharing insightful, expert analysis with fellow baseball enthusiasts. With decades of experience and a keen eye for the game’s nuances, Daniel brings a unique perspective that enriches Baseball Pro Picks. Trust Daniel to guide you through the intricacies of baseball with the authority and trustworthiness of a true aficionado.
