
Kevin Mannell looks like Nebraska’s late-inning safety valve with swing-and-miss stuff
In the 2026 season, Kevin Mannell has already shown he can handle high-leverage innings for Nebraska, picking up saves and a win while working multiple scoreless outings, including a 4.0-inning, five-strikeout relief appearance against Auburn and a clean ninth to finish off South Dakota State. His calling card is poise under pressure: the 6-foot-4 righty has been used as a closer-type weapon, and reports describe him as a trusted bullpen arm who can shut the door when the game gets tense. If a team wants a big-bodied RHP with strikeout ability and calm late-game vibes, Mannell fits the brief.





