Being a long-time Wake Forest baseball fan, I was thrilled to hear about the team’s strong pitching for 2023.1 These players show off their amazing skills and win hearts with their love for the game.
At the head are Rhett Lowder, Josh Hartle, and Sean Sullivan.1 Lowder, a rightie, leads the team. He was the best in the ACC last year. Hartle, now a star, overcame a slow start. Sullivan, new from Northwestern, filled in big when another pitcher was hurt.
The Wake Forest’s pitching was predicted to shine this year. And it has. This trio’s teamwork, skill, and drive have launched the Deacons into a great start.
The Dominant Trio: Rhett Lowder, Josh Hartle, and Sean Sullivan
Rhett Lowder: The Wise Elder
Being the most seasoned in the group, Lowder shares his know-how with teammates, notably newcomer Josh Hartle.2 Lowder acts like the team’s wise elder. He blends his deep insight into analytics and biomechanics with his talent. This mix not only sharpens his game but also lifts up his younger peers. A junior right-hander, Lowder is known for more than his pitching skills. He’s a chess enthusiast and an artist. He says these hobbies boost his pitching performance. In Wake’s lab, he uses advanced tools to enhance his techniques. This has led to him having one of the finest sliders in the country.
Josh Hartle: The Phenom Realized
Josh Hartle entered Wake Forest with high hopes but faced a tough start, especially in games against ACC teams. He even had a rough game against Notre Dame.2 This season, Hartle has turned it around. He boasts a 10-2 record with a 2.59 ERA and 120 strikeouts. This has earned him a spot on the All-ACC first team and made him a top pick for the MLB draft. During Hartle’s rough first season, Lowder offered crucial help and guidance. He assured Hartle that things would improve. Those words became true. With the aid of coaches, who introduced a cutter to his pitches, Hartle has become the star player everyone expected him to be.
Rhett Lowder: The Wise Elder
When Wake Forest was looking to add Sean Sullivan this summer, Lowder played a key role.2 He showcased the team’s innovative pitching tech and data. This helped recruit Sullivan. This autumn, Walter trusted Lowder to lead a split-squad practice. Lowder took on tasks like charting pitches, directing game strategy, and analyzing opponents. He enjoys these responsibilities.
Josh Hartle: The Phenom Realized
Despite a shaky start at Wake Forest, Josh Hartle has now become a pitching ace for the team.2 The sophomore’s record includes 10 wins, a 2.59 ERA, and 120 strikeouts. He’s been recognized on the All-ACC first team. Hartle’s turnaround is thanks to a powerful cutter and the wisdom of his teammate, Rhett Lowder.
Wake Forest baseball pitching rotation: A Formidable Force
Lowder’s Unwavering Dominance
Rhett Lowder stands tall in 2023, showing he’s still a force after being named the ACC Pitcher of the Year. With a record of 14-0 and an ERA of 1.77, he’s truly remarkable. His game is about more than just pitching; it’s strategy, control, and a killer slider that keep batters guessing.3
Hartle’s Breakout Performance
Josh Hartle started off rough but has blossomed into a star for the Wake Forest crew. He’s nabbed a 10-2 record, a 2.59 ERA, and has struck out 120. Thanks to adding a difficult cutter and the wisdom from senior player Rhett Lowder, he’s now a top performer.3
Sullivan’s Unexpected Heroics
With an injury sidelining Teddy McGraw pre-season, a gap needed filling in the lineup. Sean Sullivan was not originally in the rotation plans. Yet, his unusual side-armed pitching style has made him a standout. He’s even celebrated with a first-team All-ACC nod.3
Conclusion
The Wake Forest baseball team has a strong 2023 season. Their pitching rotation is the main reason for this. Rhett Lowder, Josh Hartle, and Sean Sullivan lead the team. They have taken the Deacons to the Super Regionals. Now, they are favorites for the College World Series title.2
Lowder is the team’s top pitcher. He has a perfect record, with 14 wins and no losses. Plus, his ERA is an impressive 1.77.2 Hartle is shining this season. He has a 10-2 record and a 2.59 ERA. He has struck out 120 batters.2 Sullivan uses a unique side-armed style to throw pitches. His unexpected success has helped the team greatly.2
The Deacons’ pitching has been outstanding, breaking records at the school. They’ve gained a lot of attention nationally.4 With Lowder, Hartle, and Sullivan in top form, the team is ready for a strong postseason. They might just win their first College World Series in 68 years.2
Source Links
- https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/can-wake-forest-turn-things-around-despite-early-struggles/
- https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/37800618/inside-wake-forest-baseball-pitching-staff-dominance-2023
- https://www.bloggersodear.com/2023/6/13/23759682/preview-wake-forest-baseball-college-world-series-bracket
- https://www.bloggersodear.com/2023/11/1/23942141/wake-forest-takes-first-step-back-to-omaha
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.
