UNC’s freshman-to-trusted-weapon leap has been real
Walker McDuffie has already shown why UNC trusts him in big moments: in the 2025 season, the right-hander logged a 3.28 ERA with 59 strikeouts in 46.2 innings, then followed that with freshman All-America recognition and praise for a mid-90s fastball, a sharp slider, and a developing changeup. Reports also highlight his competitive edge and ability to pitch leverage innings, though the next step is refining command and fully rounding out a third pitch. If you want an attack-minded reliever with swing-and-miss stuff and guts, he’s worth a hard look.
