A Freshman’s Role in a Championship Run
Antigua stepped onto the Volunteers’ diamond as a true freshman and was part of a squad that captured the national championship. He appeared in 40 games, earning 20 starts at shortstop and helping the team secure the title that defined his debut season.
Over his first three years in Knoxville he served primarily as a backup shortstop, logging 130 appearances and compiling a .199 batting average. His lone career home run came in a decisive win against Oakland, a moment that highlighted his knack for delivering in clutch situations.
Recognition and Rankings
Perfect Game listed Antigua as the No. 137 overall player and the No. 34 shortstop in its 2023 rankings, underscoring the prospect’s early promise. He also earned three preseason Underclass All‑Region honors during high school, a testament to his consistent performance before arriving in college.
This season he posted a .200 average with a .327 on‑base percentage and a .375 slugging percentage across 40 games. The statistical line, paired with his defensive contributions, kept him on the radar of professional scouts and collegiate recruiters.
On June 1 Antigua filed paperwork to enter the transfer portal, concluding his three‑year tenure with the Volunteers. The move opens a new chapter that could see him pursue a fresh environment where his offensive flashes and defensive reliability might translate into a larger role.