VMI’s Freshman Lefty Who Keeps Finding Ways to Win
In the 2026 season, Buddy Baker has been one of VMI’s most effective arms, finishing with a 5-2 record, 2 saves, and an all-freshman nod while working mostly in relief and giving the Keydets quality innings under pressure[1][8]. He’s a left-handed strike-thrower with real poise for a freshman, already showing the kind of late-inning flexibility coaches love; his 1.98 ERA and 0.80 WHIP by late March signaled a pitcher who can miss damage and handle leverage[3]. If you want a young reliever with competitiveness, versatility, and room to grow, Baker looks like a strong fit.
