Jake Knapp is earning the national recognition that he rightfully deserves!
The ace of the UNC baseball program has been tabbed as one of five finalists for the National Pitcher of the Year Award, which the College Baseball Foundation announced on Wednesday.
The finalists for this year's award come from five different conferences. Of the finalists, Knapp is one of three to earn their conference's pitcher of the year award.
National Pitcher of the Year Award Finalists
Gabe Craig (RHP, Baylor)
Jake Knapp (RHP, North Carolina)
Jacob Morrison (RHP, Coastal Carolina)
Zane Taylor (RHP, UNCW)
Dylan Volantis (LHP, Texas)
In the official press release put out by Major League Baseball, here's what they had to say regarding Jake Knapp:
"Knapp is a perfect 13-0 this season, after leading the Tar Heels to an NCAA Regional opening round win over Holy Cross. His 13 wins are tops among all finalists. Of his 15 appearances this season, he has logged 14 starts with two complete games and was part of two combined shutouts. Knapp has an ERA of 1.98 and has recorded 85 strikeouts in 95.1 innings pitched. The ACC Pitcher of the Year has a 0.83 WHIP and has walked only 16 batters. North Carolina will host Arizona in an NCAA Super Regional."
What more is there to say about what Knapp has done on the mound this season. Coming back from Tommy John surgery, no one expected the right-hander to be this dominant, but he's taken the college baseball world by storm, essentially leading the UNC baseball program to victory every time he stepped on the mound.
Since its inception in 2009, some well-know college pitchers have taken home this award. From Stephen Strasburg and Aaron Nola to Paul Skenes just two seasons ago, Knapp has the potential to join some elite company if he ends up securing the award.
The 2025 National Pitcher of the Year winner will be announced Friday, June 13. You can find out more information regarding this prestigious award here.