Texas baseball freshman Sam Cozart is moving closer to a major national honor after being named one of 14 finalists for the Stopper of the Year Award. The Longhorns left-hander built his case with a strong season on the mound, and he now stands among the top relievers in the country.
Cozart’s numbers show why he earned the finalist spot. He posted a 1.72 ERA over 47 innings, struck out 67 batters and held opponents to a .137 batting average.
Strong production in multiple roles
Cozart did more than finish games for Texas. He also helped from the rotation at times and remained effective in every role he was asked to handle.
When he worked out of the bullpen, he delivered one of the best freshman relief seasons in the nation. He collected eight saves, which ranked second among rookies nationwide, while giving Texas a reliable late-inning option.
His conference performance made the case even stronger. In SEC play, Cozart finished with a 1.01 ERA and a 0.64 WHIP, and his seven saves led all pitchers in the league.
Rare company in Texas history
The finalist nod also puts Cozart in an exclusive group within the program. He became only the fifth player in Texas history to reach the Stopper of the Year Award finalist stage.
He joins J. Brent Cox, Chance Ruffin, Corey Knebel and teammate Dylan Volantis on that list. Cox, Ruffin and Knebel each went on to win the award, giving Cozart a chance to add his name to a notable Texas tradition.
Cozart was also recognized nationally as a finalist for the Baseball America National Freshman of the Year Award. That recognition reflects how quickly he adapted to high-level college baseball and how consistently he performed against strong competition.
Awaiting the final decision
The winner will be announced June 12 at the Men’s College World Series. Cozart will enter that announcement with a season that already placed him among the best freshman pitchers in the country and one of the most effective arms in the SEC.
Read more at: longhornswire.usatoday.com
