Kentucky infielder Emilien Pitre has been named a Third Team All-American by the American Baseball Coaches Association and Rawlings, as announced on Friday. The standout Canadian second baseman also earned Southeastern Conference (SEC) All-Defensive Team honors for the second consecutive season, solidifying his status as one of the top players in college baseball.
Stellar Defensive and Offensive Performance
Pitre, a junior from Quebec, Canada, has excelled in all facets of the game. His defensive prowess is highlighted by an impressive fielding percentage of .992, committing just two errors in nearly 250 chances this season. As part of one of the best defensive middle infields in the country, Pitre’s consistent performance has been crucial for the Wildcats.
Impressive Offensive Contributions
Offensively, Pitre has been a force to reckon with. He is batting .298 with 54 runs, 19 doubles, a triple, nine home runs, 56 RBI, and 45 walks. His 25 stolen bases are the most in a single season for a player in the Mingione era, showcasing his speed and agility on the bases. As the Wildcats’ No. 2 hitter, Pitre has demonstrated his all-around abilities, making significant contributions to the team’s success.
High Praise from Coach Mingione
Kentucky head coach Nick Mingione has routinely praised Pitre, calling him perhaps the best all-around player he has coached in his 20 years in college baseball. Pitre’s combination of defensive excellence and offensive production has made him an invaluable asset to the Wildcats.
Upcoming College World Series Appearance
Kentucky is set to open play in the College World Series at 2 p.m. ET/1 p.m. local time on Saturday, June 15, in Omaha, Nebraska, against NC State. As the Wildcats prepare for this significant challenge, Pitre’s leadership and performance will undoubtedly play a critical role in their quest for victory.
