Freshman right-hander Trey Williford of the University of North Carolina Wilmington has quickly become a cornerstone of the Seahawks' rotation, earning his second Coastal Athletic Association Rookie of the Week honor this season.
Rookie of the Week, Again
His latest outing showcased why the league has taken notice: a 2.43 earned run average that tops the conference and a career‑high 11 strikeouts in an 18‑2 victory over North Carolina A&T.
The performance marked his second straight start with double‑digit strikeouts, a feat that tied a program record for a freshman and underscored his rapid development on the mound.
Beyond the conference, Williford sits atop national freshman leaderboards for strikeouts per nine innings at 11.78 and ranks fourth in WHIP at 1.17, signaling a pitcher who could soon attract broader attention.
The Seahawks are set to open a four‑game homestand on May 11, beginning with a matchup against a nationally‑ranked North Carolina squad, a test that will further gauge Williford’s growing arsenal.
Looking Ahead
Coach Mike Gillespie praised Williford’s composure and work ethic, noting that the young pitcher’s ability to adapt quickly bodes well for the remainder of the season. As the team prepares for the upcoming series, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the freshman can maintain his momentum against tougher competition.