Kentucky’s Ben Cleaver Earns SEC Extra Pitcher of the Week Honors After Stellar Performance

Kentucky sophomore pitcher Ben Cleaver has been named SEC Extra Pitcher of the Week after a dominant display in a 6-1 win over Hofstra last weekend. Cleaver’s impressive outing further solidified his reputation as one of the Southeastern Conference’s top pitchers early in the season, continuing the strong development he’s shown from his freshman to sophomore year.

Untouchable on the Mound In his most recent appearance, Cleaver was nearly flawless, allowing just one hit and one walk across 7.1 innings while recording three strikeouts. This performance marked the longest outing by any SEC pitcher so far this season. Cleaver held a perfect game through 5.2 innings before allowing a two-strike single that narrowly found its way through the infield. His mastery on the mound was clear as he kept Hofstra’s hitters off balance with pinpoint control and efficiency.

Throwing only 83 pitches, 59 of which were strikes, Cleaver demonstrated remarkable command. He also set career highs in both innings pitched and pitch count, strengthening his role as a key contributor to the Wildcats’ pitching staff.

An Exceptional Start to the Season Cleaver’s performance against Hofstra is part of a broader trend that highlights his impressive growth in his second collegiate season. In his last two starts, spanning 13.1 innings, he has yet to allow a run, surrendering only two singles and a walk. Remarkably, none of the three runners he’s allowed in those starts have advanced past first base.

His season stats are equally outstanding. Cleaver boasts a 2-0 record with a 1.06 ERA, ranking among the SEC’s top pitchers in multiple categories. Over 17 innings, he has given up just six hits while striking out 19 batters and walking four. Opponents are batting a paltry .109 against him, with no extra-base hits.

A Rising Star in the SEC Cleaver’s exceptional performance has placed him among the SEC’s elite pitchers early in the season. He ranks third in opponent batting average (.109), third in innings pitched (17), fourth in fewest hits allowed (6), and eighth in ERA (1.06). He also leads all Kentucky pitchers with 19 strikeouts, ranking 19th overall in the SEC and fifth among sophomore pitchers.

Reflecting on his progress, Cleaver credited his improved mental approach. “I feel I’m much more mature this year, both on and off the field,” he said after Kentucky’s win over Hofstra. “That maturity has helped me avoid getting too high or too low, so I just try to stay steady throughout.”

With his newfound confidence and dominant performances, Cleaver is shaping up to be a key player for the Wildcats in their pursuit of success this season. As he continues to elevate his game, Kentucky fans can look forward to more spectacular outings from their emerging star on the mound.