Troy Shepard is emerging as SIU’s high-upside strikeout lefty
Troy Shepard has become one of Southern Illinois’ most impactful arms in 2026, pairing swing-and-miss stuff with real workhorse value; he was named Missouri Valley Conference Newcomer of the Week after striking out 12 and allowing one hit over eight innings against Bradley, then followed it with eight complete innings and six strikeouts versus Belmont. He ranks among the Valley leaders in strikeouts, opponent batting average and WHIP, and his transfer track record suggests he can handle meaningful innings and pressure spots.
