Bryce Tucker

A deceptive lefthanded reliever with some funk in his delivery, Tucker has had success as Central Florida's closer in each of the last two seasons. He had a phenomenal sophomore campaign in 2017, when he posted a 1.66 ERA in 38 innings with 55 strikeouts and 12 walks. His performance hasn't been as polished this spring, as Tucker's walk rate has jumped significantly, although his ERA is still solid and he is striking out batters at an encouraging clip. Tucker throws a fastball in the 88-92 mph range and the pitch plays up thanks to a delivery that has the lefthander crouched and his upper half tilted toward first base through his release. Tucker also throws a curveball in the mid- to upper 70s. His control issues date back to his time with USA Baseball's Collegiate National Team last summer, when he walked six batters in 10 innings--though he still struck out 18. He fields his position well and also has a quick pickoff move to first base.