Hunter Manning brings power-arm upside and early-impact relief work to UC Irvine
In the 2026 season, UC Irvine freshman right-hander Hunter Manning has already flashed immediate value in relief, including a 2.2-inning, four-strikeout scoreless outing against Grand Canyon and a six-strikeout appearance over 3.2 innings vs. Oregon, suggesting a pitch mix that plays in leverage right away. Manning comes in with a classic starter’s build at 6-foot-5 and 220 pounds, and UCI’s staff has pointed to a fastball that reached the low 90s plus a feel for multiple off-speed pitches. He also arrives with a proven winner’s résumé after a dominant high school season and CIF title run, which makes him a useful follow if you want upside, toughness, and strike-throwing ability.
