A Late‑Season Surge
James DeCremer, a redshirt sophomore pitcher for the Arkansas Razorbacks, seized a pivotal moment in the series finale against Kentucky, delivering the final nine outs in a 16‑12 victory. Before each pitch he repeats the mantra “This pitch. Right now.”, a simple cue that has helped him stay locked in during high‑pressure situations.
The road to this breakthrough was anything but smooth. Early in the season DeCremer struggled with a calf injury and a mechanical overhaul, watching his role diminish. He returned in the Oklahoma series finale, tossing the last two innings, and has since built momentum, striking out four while allowing just three hits across two appearances versus Kentucky.
Coach’s endorsement
Head coach Dave Van Horn has publicly praised DeCremer’s progress, noting that the pitcher’s ability to get ahead in the count and maintain composure has made him a cornerstone of the late‑season rotation. Van Horn emphasized that the staff needed exactly this kind of depth as they head into the SEC tournament.
Bullpen reshaped
The relief corps is shifting accordingly. Relievers such as Ethan McElvain, Parker Coil, Cole Gibler, Steele Eaves and Jackson Fuller are being paired with DeCremer to stretch innings and preserve late‑game leads. Their combined effort aims to avoid the late‑inning collapses that plagued Arkansas in earlier losses to Georgia and Oklahoma.
Behind the Scenes
Pitching coordinator Colin Fisher has been instrumental in refining DeCremer’s delivery, while director of baseball operations Mark Brissey praised the staff’s resilience and the coordinated adjustments that have brought the group back to competitiveness.
What’s next for the Razorbacks
With the SEC tournament on the horizon, Arkansas’s pitching staff now boasts a mix of experience and fresh arm strength. DeCremer’s resurgence offers the team a flexible option, whether as a starter, a long reliever or a bridge to the later innings. The coaching staff believes that this newfound depth could be the difference between a solid postseason run and another early exit.