We continue the countdown today with number 49, Virginia LHP Nathan Kirby. In a stellar freshman campaign with the Cavaliers, Kirby was fourth on the staff by appearing in 24 games with 32.2 innings pitched. During the 2013 season the south paw pitched to a 4-1 record posting a 6.06 ERA and showed great command of the zone only allowing 13 walks the entire season. Kirby had the opportunity to start in two games but found success coming out of the bullpen for the Cavaliers, throwing countless shutout innings in 2013.
The Midlothian, Va. native attended James River High School where he was named the 2012 Virginia Player of the Year by Gatorade and ESPNHS. In his senior year, Kirby went 9-1 with a 1.24 ERA in 56.2 innings pitched. The Richmond Times-Dispatch Player of the Year also found success at the plate as he batted .397 with 17 RBI. The south paw proved to be a top contender which caught the eye of the Virginia coaching staff.
During the 2013 summer, Kirby spent his time in the New England Collegiate Baseball League where he was a member of the Keene Swamp Bats. The left hander was the NECBL’s Top Prospect as well as named the Rookie of the Year after striking out 60 in only 43 innings pitched. Kirby posted a 3-0 record while with the Swamp Bats and his 1.67 ERA proved once again that he was able to hang with the best some of the best competition in the nation.
After a very successful summer season, Kirby returns to the Cavaliers for 2014 where he hopes to continue his success and help guide them to winning season. The LHP will definitely be a player to watch come the 2014 campaign.
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