The Citadel's Intense Freshman RHP with 22 SOs and Checkered 2026 ERA
Riley Ballard, a 6'0", 205-lb right-handed freshman pitcher for The Citadel, stands out not just for his 22 strikeouts in the 2026 season but for his relentless intensity and competitive fire that often exceeds his 7.77 ERA. While his stats show vulnerability with men on base (8.49 ERA), Ballard's differentiator is his personality: a hard-working, champion mindset forged from three district titles at Hanahan High, where he signed with The Citadel in 2024. He's a high-intensity fit for teams needing a pitcher who digs deep in pressure, though his ERA suggests he's still refining consistency. If you value grit over polish, Ballard is a compelling prospect with room to grow.
