Emma Friedel gives South Carolina a power arm with big-game bite
In the 2026 season, Friedel has been a key transfer addition for South Carolina, giving the Gamecocks a 6-foot-1 right-handed pitcher who can miss bats and handle pressure spots. She posted a 3.42 ERA with 134 strikeouts in 2025 at Kennesaw State, and early 2026 results showed swing-and-miss stuff again, including a 9-strikeout complete game against No. 11 Texas A&M and a 7-strikeout complete game against No. 4 Alabama. She fits a staff needing experience, length, and a vertical power look.
