TicketsFeb. 4, 2007
DALLAS, Texas---University of Cincinnati junior pitcher A.J. Upton has been recognized among the nation's best at his position as he has earned a berth on the National Collegiate Baseball Writers of America Stopper of the Year Award watch list. The award is presented annually to the top relief pitcher in Division I.
Upton (Maineville, Ohio/St. Xavier) is listed among the top-35 relievers in the country and is one of two BIG EAST players on the list, joining Kyle Weiland of Notre Dame. A former walk-on, Upton led the Bearcats and ranked fourth in the BIG EAST in 2006 with six saves. Over 22 appearances, Upton worked 39.2 innings, holding a 2-2 record and a 3.86 ERA.
"We are extremely pleased to have A.J. mentioned on this list with some of college baseball's best relievers," UC head coach Brian Cleary said. "A.J. is a guy that has worked very hard to get where he is today. Clearly, he had an impressive performance last season and we will look to him as an important aspect of our bullpen again this year."
The 2007 Stopper of the Year will be announced on June 7, just eight days after the finalists are revealed. The midseason watch list will be announced on April 18.