Longhorn transfer Josh Stewart starring in reliever role for Texas A&M baseball as Aggies compete for a national championship
As you might expect, it is has been a whole team effort for Texas A&M baseball to make it all the way to the College World Series final. Aggie fans knew coming into the year that the power hitting in this lineup could stand up to any other team in the country; the pitching, however, was a concern.
Throughout the year, however, the Aggies have seen a masterclass in coaching from pitching coach Max Weiner. Under his tutelage, the A&M arms have been absolutely stellar, from Prager to Lamkin to Jones—not to mention Aschenbeck—and far exceeded expectations.
Bullpens can be a roller coaster sometimes in college baseball, but the relievers have been a pleasant surprise for the Aggies as well. Chris Cortez's emergence as a quality reliever has been one of the biggest stories of the season on that front, without a doubt. However, there's another reliever who's been on a hot streak recently: Josh Stewart.
Stewart, in a total of 4.1 innings of work against Kentucky and Florida in the College World Series, has had some absolutely nasty stuff on the nmound. He's allowed only 3 hits total and one run (late against the Wildcats, when things were essentially sewn up), and had the Gators seeing ghosts at the plate.
Stewart began his career at the University of Texas as a freshman. The Longhorns lost him to the portal, however, and he chose the Aggies as his destination. This was fitting for Stewart, who grew up as a fan of Texas A&M.
After this homecoming for Stewart, he's been a valuable piece for this Aggie team. To win a championship, you need big time efforts from your entire roster; Stewart has played his part to perfection so far in Omaha. I expect to see him tomorrow night in Game 2 (though nothing has yet been announced).
What a story this would be if Stewart helps guide the Aggies to a national championship! The prodigal son sojourning in the wilderness before returning home to help steer the Ags to their destiny. Stewart and the bullpen will have their work cut out for them, no doubt, but I believe in them—they've shown up big all year, and I think they will continue to do so on the big stage.