Here's a roster rundown with some background on most of the guys plus some thoughts mixed in... Apologies for the length, but I'm not making anyone read it. But for the 2, maybe 3, that will. Thanks.
Hitting/Fielding Outlook
Alabama will return just 3 starters in the field from last year's team, but overall 1-9, the lineup is solid assuming some of the new guys can make the smooth transition to SEC play. The problem is, the hitting depth overall isn't that great. There are some guys that have promising bats and certainly plenty of potential, but they are either really young with no experience yet or they've had some experience but not much overall. One thing fans will notice right away though is the athleticism and speed 1-9 is much better than last season. This team is going to be aggressive on the bases and they have the horses to do it. Last year, it was more of a situation where they had to wait for the big hit most innings if they wanted to score. This season, with this lineup, Vaughn has the ability to force the issue more and make things happen. For example, while this squad may not hit as many HR's as last year's, stolen bases as a whole will be way up over last season's numbers. Along those same lines, the athleticism of the outfield defense as a whole is improved from what it was in '24. Runs will be saved by the improved defense compared to last year and those runs can matter in close ballgames. Lastly, while depth of the position players on the roster is not great, there is at least a lot of flexibility with the players that are there. Several of the guys can play at multiple spots. That will prove valuable when some injuries hit, when some guys have a hot bat and need to be in the lineup, or when there are good matchups to be had against opposing starters and Vaughn wants to slide some things around. He will certainly have a lot of intriguing lineup options to toy with as the season wears on.
Here's a look at the guys by position...
Catchers
Brady Neal (Jr)- Neal transferred in from LSU and is slated to start. At the plate, he's got some good pop, should end up with double digit HR's if he can stay healthy, but he also sports a high strikeout rate. Most important thing for him though is to play well behind the dish first and foremost. He can play other positions if needed, but with the catcher spot being so thin this season, unless his bat is on fire and they feel they need to have him in the lineup on days he's not catching, I'm not sure we will see that come into play (barring a rash of injuries).
Will Plattner (Jr)- Plattner transferred in from Ole Miss before the '24 season and redshirted last season. He's got a more than capable bat and glove and will get plenty of playing time this year. Back in the summer, he was slated to also play some in the outfield, but the depth issues at the catching spot pretty much nixed that plan for now. He's a hard worker who the coaching staff loves.
Luke Vaughn (So)- Vaughn was expected to get a much bigger role this season, but unfortunately he got injured in the fall and will have to redshirt this time around. I say that to point out though that the catcher spot is now really thin, and Neal and Plattner both need to avoid any major injuries. The staff is high on Vaughn's abilities and future though, especially behind the plate as a catcher.
Infielders
Will Hodo (Sr)- Hodo is a starter that can play 1B or LF/RF if need be, but he will occupy the DH spot more often than not. You want his bat in the lineup and he's also a guy that can steal some bases. He is one of the 3 returning starters from last season and a team leader. He's a power bat who can drive in runs but he's also a guy that has a very patient and smart approach to each at bat. He will make the pitcher throw strikes and he isn't shy at all about taking a walk and passing the bat. He led the team last year with 34 walks to go along with 10 HBP's.
Jason Torres (Jr)- Torres transferred in from Miami and will be the guy at 1B. He brings an elite glove on defense which was needed at that spot. If his bat gets hot and translates well to SEC pitching, he will get some time at DH too and he also has the ability to play 3rd. He missed the final portion of the season in Miami last year and had to have Tommy John surgery. The recovery limited him this fall in Tuscaloosa, but he's healthy and ready to go now for the start of the season. He brings a really good approach at the plate thanks to a good eye and has plenty of pop in his bat. He'll slide into the cleanup spot in the order and will have ample opportunities to drive in runs with the 3 guys ahead of him.
Justin Lebron (So)- I told you this time last year to buy Lebron stock and I hope you listened. Last season as a freshman, he got better and better at the plate as the season went on. He won't be sneaking up on any opposing teams this season, but his talent and ability lead me to believe he will adjust to his sophomore season just fine. This kid is special. When they talk about 5 tool players, Lebron checks all the boxes, plus he's a good dude on top of it. He's a top end 1st round talent that Alabama is really lucky to have.
Brennen Norton (Sr)- Norton was a 3 year starter at Jacksonville State who transferred to Alabama after last season. He will be the starter at 2B. The ball jumps off his bat similar to how it did with Gage Miller last season... he just hits some absolute piss missiles. He should provide an increase in production offensively from the 2B spot over last year. He's solid with the glove in the field.
Garrett Staton (RSr)- Staton is a transfer from Samford who will play 3B but has the ability to play 2B if needed. Additionally, he's another guy with some speed that can get after it on the bases and make things happen there as well. It would be really, really hard to replace Gage Miller's production from last year, but Norton is no slouch himself. I think he will adapt to SEC pitching pretty well and provide a steady bat in the lineup with good power.
Jon Young Jr. (Fr)- Young is having to wait his turn to take over duties at SS but that doesn't mean he won't find some playing time. His glove is too good and his bat is too promising to keep him stashed away all year on the bench. While Lebron didn't miss any games at SS last season, Young will be there to fill in as needed. In the meantime, he will get a look at 2B and maybe even 3B to get him some AB's and experience. He is a big part of Bama's future plans.
JoJo Williamson (Fr)- Like Young, Williamson may have a hard time finding a lot of AB's with the guys in front of him, but the staff really likes his bat. If there's an injury or two he's a guy that can plug in nicely, especially at 2B.
Outfielders
Bryce Fowler (RJr)- Fowler comes in from Pearl River CC where he led off and hit .419 with a 1:1 K:BB ratio and had 24 steals last season. He will leadoff for Bama too, and hitting in front of Justin Lebron, he will see some decent pitches along the way. He's got some pop in his bat and will put a few over the fence. He's also got a very good glove and will play center or right in the outfield (usually in right thanks to his strong arm).
Rickie Bonomolo (Jr)- Bonolomo is a transfer from Wabash Valley College. He's another very athletic player who can cover a ton of ground with a good glove in the outfield. At the plate, he's got enough pop to hit some out of the park on occasion, but he's a doubles machine and is an absolute burner on the basepaths. He will be the starter in CF and likely hit in the 9 hole to begin the season.
Kade Snell (RSr)- Snell is another of the 3 returning starters and will man the LF spot, but can play RF if/when needed. The former auburn player split his time last season as a part time pitcher, but will focus solely on his position play and hitting this year. He had the 3rd highest batting average on the team last season at .324, and that comes with decent power and a pretty good eye which should all be improved now that he isn't having to split time on the mound in practices. Snell is also the team captain for 2025 which tells you how his teammates feel about him.
Coleman Mizell (So)- Mizell will also get some time in the outfield and if his bat starts to reach its potential, those opportunities will go up. He will also be a leading candidate at DH. He has a prosing bat that Vaughn really likes. He is going to be one of the better players off the bench when he's not in the lineup.
Peyton Steele (Fr)- Steele is a true freshman from the baseball prospect rich grounds of Hartselle, AL. Even as a freshman, he already swings a pretty respectable bat. Down the road, he's going to be a major contributor. He can play at a number of spots in the field, both OF and INF if needed. I'd imagine he will get some playing time in midweeks and blowouts and also some chances off the bench as a RH pinch hitter in some situations.
Other position players who will either redshirt or most likely have very limited roles starting out
Sean Griggs (Fr)- Freshman infielder out of NJ.
Ahmaad Duff (Fr)- A speedy freshman outfielder out of IN.
Possible opening day lineup (with R/L/S batting) with their 2024 stats
RF- Fowler (L) .419, 11 HR, 52 RBI (Pearl River CC)
SS- Lebron (R) .338, 12 HR, 37 RBI
DH- Hodo (L) .263, 11 HR, 38 RBI
1B- Torres (R) .331, 8 HR, 32 RBI (Miami)
LF- Snell (L) .324, 6 HR, 30 RBI
2B- Norton (R) .318, 12 HR, 39 RBI (Jacksonville St.)
C- Neal (L) .276, 9 HR, 31 RBI (LSU)
3B- Staton (R) .319, 19 HR, 69 RBI (Samford)
CF- Bonomolo Jr. (R) .449, 7 HR, 62 RBI (Wabash Valley)
Bench
Mizell (L) .190, 1 HR, 3 RBI
Plattner (R) DNP - Redshirted
Steele (R) High School
Young Jr. (L) High School
Williamson (L) High School
Pitching Outlook
The strength of this year's team is in the pitching depth. Adams and Quick are two heavyweights at the top of the weekend rotation. Behind them though, the strength is in the numbers, and there is a good number of both seasoned and capable young arms. A valid concern is the fact that every season Bama seems to lose one of, if not their top overall arm, to an injury. Hopefully, this season will bring better luck. Injuries are part of it, but if the staff can navigate around any serious issues with their better pitchers for once, it sure would be nice. Behind the duo of Adams and Quick, there are about 5 or 6 guys who could legitimately take the ball on Sunday and keep Bama in ball games based on their potential. The question is, will someone take hold of the job (Bobby Alcock will get first crack at it)? Or will we see some shuffling there in the hopes of finding a guy that can pitch to his potential on a weekly basis? If the Tide can get the Sunday spot locked down, Bama should be in pretty good shape on the mound starting games, no matter the day.
The good news extends to the bullpen where again, the team is stocked with talented arms, both upperclassmen and freshmen. They have several guys with SEC expereince who will compete for the high leverage spots and while grad transfer Carson Ozmer is the designated closer, there are a few other guys that can step in and close out games if/when needed. Vaughn and his staff also have some relievers this year that can and will give opposing hitters different looks with their arm angles and deliveries, something they couldn't really offer last season. The pen isn't overflowing with southpaws, but barring some injuries, they should be able to navigate that without too many issues.
Pitchers (starting with weekend starters)
LHP Zane Adams (So)- Zane will be at the top of the rotation on Friday night's for Bama. Barring a disastrous year, it'll be his second and final year with Bama before being drafted. He was thrust into a big role last year as a freshman after injuries to other starters, but he more than held his own and most importantly, improved as the season wore on. His fb runs up to mid 90's and he has developed an excellent changeup that should really pay dividends this spring. He also sports a solid curve to go along with it. His ceiling is very high and Bama needs him healthy and on the mound each weekend.
RHP Riley Quick (RSo)- Quick is also a weekend rotation piece (was the Saturday starter last year, and will be the same this year), but he's still working his way back from Tommy John surgery and will be on a strict pitch count, especially early in the season. Quick is another guy that has garnered plenty of attention from scouts and has all the tools they like. His freshman season, control was a bit of an issue, but he showed good improvement in that area last year before his injury. His fb can run up to 99-100 with a heavy sink and he also sports a plus slider and change. If you're a casual fan and just want someone to cheer for, Quick is your guy. There isn't another dude in the dugout who cares more about and loves Alabama more than he does. I pity the schools that have tried to lure him away with money.
RHP Bobby Alcock (RSr)- Alcock was injured last year and didn't play (shoulder surgery) after transferring in from Gardner-Webb (where he was the Big South Pitcher of the Year in 2023), but he's now healthy going into this season. He's going to get first shot in the Sunday starter's slot. There's other options there if need be, but Alcock will get first crack at it. He's a hard throwing righty who got it to the mid to upper 90's before his injury... He's still working on getting that velocity back, but he has it in the low 90's right now. If he comes back strong, he could very well nail down that Sunday role. If not, he may get bumped to midweek starter status or possibly long relief on the weekends. But this is a good sign both for him (post injury), and for the pitching depth overall, that he's already the #3 guy on the weekend.
Pitchers who may start midweek games or at times on weekends if need be
RHP Tyler Fay (RSo)- Fay was a serious candidate to get the Sunday starter role to begin the season. On the mound, he's been a bit of a mixed bag thus far in his young Bama career. He has a lot of potential, which he has flashed at times, he just hasn't been consistent yet up to this point. But he's at that stage now where he can (and should) make some big strides. He led the team in total appearances last season with 23. He sports a really nice 2 seamer (sinker) that sits mid-90's and he compliments it with a good slider and change. When he's getting good movement on his stuff and hitting his spots, he can be a handful for opposing hitters. If Alcock falters in the Sunday role, I'd expect Fay to get a look there. Beyond that, the staff will have to figure out if he's more valuable as a midweek starter or a weekend reliever.
LHP Beau Bryans (Jr)- Bryans transferred to Bama after 2 seasons at Jones CC (MS). He will be a starter candidate for Sunday or possibly midweek games, otherwise, he will be a lefty out of the pen. He's expected to contribute one way or another though. A funky cross-body delivery from the lower arm slot combined with a fastball that tops out at 96. He's a high strikeout guy who can be hell on left handed hitters. He throws a nice change up and slider as well. He has had some control issues that need to be ironed out, but if he can get dialed in on his location consistently, he could be a major piece on the front end of the rotation or backend of the pen.
RHP JT Blackwood (Jr)- Blackwood is a transfer from Wallace State CC (AL) where he started 12 games last season. He has good control of his pitches which include a fb that runs into the low 90's, a good slider, a cutter, and a changeup. He's another option as a starter or bullpen arm. It's going to be a big leap from Wallace State for Blackwood, but he's got the ability and stuff to get it done.
RHP Anthony Pesci (Fr)- Pesci is a freshman out of Michigan. He's got a long but lean 6'4" frame. He has a lively fb that can creep into the mid 90's to go with a curve, slider, and a really nice change up. It isn't easy for a freshman pitcher to come in and make a big impact in year 1, but Pesci has the stuff and ability to find a role, possibly as a midweek starter. Down the road he projects as a frontline starter on the weekends.
RHP Hagan Banks (RJr)- Banks only got 3 starts (4 appearances) into the '24 season before he was shelved with an elbow injury. He's back healthy now and has had some success out of the pen and in his short time as a starter. I love watching Banks when he's on the mound... he wastes no time and goes right after hitters... one of the quicker workers you'll see. As for his stuff, he's got really good control, a fb that tops out at 90, a curve, and a slider. His 4 seamer has a lot of run on it, or at least did pre-injury. Not sure what role they are going to put him in coming off his injury, but I'd assume we will see him out of the pen and on a lower pitch count until the season warms up.
RHP Aeden Finateri (Sr)- Finateri has struggled since transferring in from Georgia Tech after last season. He was a weekend starter for the Yellow Jackets and pitched 75 innings last season. The hope is that he will get back on track this spring. If so, he'd have a good shot at a midweek starter spot. But, a role in the pen may be what he needs to get recalibrated. On the mound, he offers a low 90's fb, a curve, and a change up.
Pitchers who will contribute out of the pen
RHP Austin Morris (RSo)- Morris carved himself into a bullpen role last year and showed a promising upside as the season wore on. Morris, who throws from the 3/4 arm slot, sports a bag full of pitches including a fb in the mid 90's to go with a sinker, a slider that has good run, a curve and a change. Morris could fill any number of roles on the staff this season from starter (if needed) to long relief to high leverage relief, but he is expected to start out in the pen.
RHP Aidan Moza (Sr)- Moza hit a few bumps in the road during his junior season after having a fantastic sophomore campaign UA, but when he's dialed in and attacking hitters, he's a key part of this staff. If he can pair his 2025 stuff with his 2023 consistency, he will be a high impact arm that can pitch in any situation and get key outs, including closing out games which he's done before (against the Vols last season). As far as his stuff, he has good command with a fb that creeps up to 96-97 to go along with a nasty slider, a cutter, and a nice curveball.
RHP Ariston Veasey (So)- Veasey is a hard throwing righty who can run it up to 96 to go with a sharp slider and nice curve. He only had one appearance last season where he walked 2 and didn't record an out at Samford, but he's expected to have a bigger role in the pen this season. He's a guy that seems to be improving at a pretty rapid pace as well. Worth noting too that Veasey was once a catching prospect as well coming out of high school, and that could come into play with the depth issues that Bama has at the catching spot going into the season.
RHP Coulson Buchanan (Sr)- Buchanan had 19 appearances in relief last year for the Tide, some in higher leverage situations and some in mop up situations. That experience should serve him well as he enters his senior season. The former Wofford transfer isn't going to light up radar guns but he can still miss bats and throw strikes, relying mostly on a fb and curveball. Mixed in among some of the harder throwers in the pen, his stuff can really give opposing hitters fits at times.
LHP Matthew Heiberger (So)- Heiberger had 16 relief appearances last season for Alabama even though he missed a month of action with an injury. He's developed into a high leverage lefty reliever who can get outs when needed. He brings a very lively fb in the mid-90's, a slider, a really good change up, and slow curve.
RHP Braylon Myers (Sr)- Myers is another key piece to Bama's bullpen who has the stuff and the SEC experience to really make some noise. He finished with a 2.73 ERA over 20 appearances in 2024, which included closing out a few games. That's a role he can take on again this year when called upon, but he is going to be a valuable piece in the pen regardless. His fb is low 90's and complemented by a sweeping slider. As mentioned, he can close out games if need be but regardless he will be a high leverage guy who will be tasked with getting the tough outs when needed.
RHP Carson Ozmer (Grad)- Ozmer is a grad transfer from Penn where he was their closer (he got the win in relief 2 years ago against auburn in their regional going 3.1 innings and giving up just 1 hit). He is set to assume the same role for Bama this season, or at the very least, settle into a setup and high leverage role. Ozmer, who has averaged over a strikeout per inning in his college career, offers more of a sidearm delivery with the ability to change his arm slot to 3/4. From the lower arm angle he can run his fb/sinker up to 90 to pair with a very effective slider (as most sub slot guys do), and a change up. He adds 3 or 4 MPH to the fb with his higher 3/4 slot delivery. The staff feels good about his ability to close out games.
RHP Packy Bradley-Cooney (Sr)- Bradley-Cooney is a transfer from Campbell where he was a backend reliever and closer for the Camels. While the SEC is going to be a big step up for him, he was plenty effective at Campbell posting 6 saves and holding opposing hitters to a .193 average. He's set to work out of the pen for Bama and his success will ultimately determine his role from there. His fb sits in the low 90's and he has a solid slider to go with it.
LHP Connor Ball (RJr)- Ball redshirted last season after seeing action in 11 games in 2023. He's a quick worker on the mound who is more crafty than he is overpowering (fb sits 88-89) and relies heavily on his slider. I'm not sure what role he will settle into this season, but he's at least another lefty option who has some decent experience out of the pen who throws strikes.
Other pitchers who will be fighting for a role or possibly redshirting in some cases
LHP Connor Lehman (Fr)- Lehman is a freshman who will have a chance to earn a role, as you can never have too many southpaws in the pen. He's green and still getting better, but as of now he's got a FB in the low 90's, a really good slider, a curve, and a change. He's going to need to continue to develop but he will more than likely get a chance to contribute at some point this season, IMO.
RHP Jonathan Stevens (So)- Stevens didn't play in his freshman season last year. He brings a low 90's fb, slider, curve, and change up. He's another guy that will likely get a chance at some point, maybe midweek relief, and if he makes the most of it, could see his role expand.
RHP Sam Mitchell (So)- Mitchell appeared in 5 games last year in relief. He's got an imposing frame on the mound at 6'7" who throws a fb, curve, and slider.
RHP Jack Ketchum (Fr)- Ketchum is a true freshman with a promising future on the mound. He's going to need some time to develop and fulfill his potential, but it wouldn't be a surprise to see him contribute in relief this season. He brings a fb that will top 90, a sharp slider, and a really good change up.
RHP/IF Andre Modungo (Fr)- Modungo is another true freshman worth mentioning. He was signed out of IMG Academy in FL. Like fellow freshman Pesci, he's got a tall frame at 6'5". He was/is highly regarded as a 3rd/1st baseman out of HS but there's still a focus on his development as a pitcher. On the mound his fb sits in the low 90's to go with a curve and change up. He could emerge as an impact arm this season, but he certainly projects to be an excellent player down the road regardless. With his bat and potential to play both ways, I could see him eventually being some sort of version of former Florida 2 way star Jac Caglianone. He's got plenty of talent, with his bat and his arm, that much is for certain.
RHP Danny Heintz (RSr)- Heintz is another transfer from Penn, where he appeared in 8 games last season. He brings an imposing frame at 6'6" and matches it with pretty good power from the hill where his fb hits mid 90's to go with a solid slider.
RHP Zack Kittrell (Jr)- A transfer from Pensacola State College. He missed the 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery but is good to go now. He has good command and throws a fb, change, and a slider (which is probably his best pitch).
RHP Ashton Alston (Fr)- Another tall (6'5") freshman out of TN with a lively low 90's fb and promising slider and curve.
RHP Jackson Hunter (Fr)- A freshman from Hazel Green HS. Offers a low 90's fb, curve, slider, and change.
RHP Nash Wagner (Fr)- Yet another 6'5" freshman, this time out of IN. Throws a low 90's fb, curve, slider.
LHP Carson Kuehne (Fr)- Yes, another 6'5" freshman. He's out of IMG Academy. Has the fb, curve, slider, and change quartet in his arsenal but will likely need time to develop.
RHP Egan Lowery (So)- Sidearmer with good movement on his fb and slider. He could also be an option for emergency catcher if needed.
Season Outlook
As for the season outlook as a whole, it's just hard to say. The non-conference slate is pretty light as usual other than the 3 day tournament in Jacksonville where Bama will play Coastal Carolina and NC State. But in mid-March when SEC play begins, the Tide starts off in the deep end with a series at national champ runner ups Texas A&M and then 3 at home against defending champions Tennessee. Then they get Oklahoma at home, a series they must win followed by a series in auburn, a team that will be improved from last year. That's followed by a home series vs. Mississippi State and then it's on the road to LSU which is always tough. In late April, Mizzou visits for a 3 game series and then it's off to Vandy. As the regular season winds down, Bama welcomes a very good Georgia squad to town before finishing up on the road with a final series against Florida before the SEC Tournament begins the following week. As you can see, Bama will be running through a minefield. Stealing a couple of series' on the road would be massive (last year Bama only took 1 road series [from Ole Miss] but struggled overall going 4-11 away from home overall). You'd love to see them hold the line at home (win every series), but that's all but an impossible ask... especially with the Vols and UGA Bulldogs on the slate. The good news is, last year's home schedule was really tough, but Bama did win 4 of the 5 weekends and went 9-6 overall. So, 13-17 in 2024. With the schedule and roster this season, I think that 13-17 is very much in play again, and right about where the Tide will end up. Some bad luck, 11-19 in the league is probably the floor. Some good luck, 15-15 in league play is probably the ceiling. But, predictions mean nothing. It'll all be decided on the field(s) and thankfully, after a long wait, the time for that begins tomorrow. Roll Tide...
Hitting/Fielding Outlook
Alabama will return just 3 starters in the field from last year's team, but overall 1-9, the lineup is solid assuming some of the new guys can make the smooth transition to SEC play. The problem is, the hitting depth overall isn't that great. There are some guys that have promising bats and certainly plenty of potential, but they are either really young with no experience yet or they've had some experience but not much overall. One thing fans will notice right away though is the athleticism and speed 1-9 is much better than last season. This team is going to be aggressive on the bases and they have the horses to do it. Last year, it was more of a situation where they had to wait for the big hit most innings if they wanted to score. This season, with this lineup, Vaughn has the ability to force the issue more and make things happen. For example, while this squad may not hit as many HR's as last year's, stolen bases as a whole will be way up over last season's numbers. Along those same lines, the athleticism of the outfield defense as a whole is improved from what it was in '24. Runs will be saved by the improved defense compared to last year and those runs can matter in close ballgames. Lastly, while depth of the position players on the roster is not great, there is at least a lot of flexibility with the players that are there. Several of the guys can play at multiple spots. That will prove valuable when some injuries hit, when some guys have a hot bat and need to be in the lineup, or when there are good matchups to be had against opposing starters and Vaughn wants to slide some things around. He will certainly have a lot of intriguing lineup options to toy with as the season wears on.
Here's a look at the guys by position...
Catchers
Brady Neal (Jr)- Neal transferred in from LSU and is slated to start. At the plate, he's got some good pop, should end up with double digit HR's if he can stay healthy, but he also sports a high strikeout rate. Most important thing for him though is to play well behind the dish first and foremost. He can play other positions if needed, but with the catcher spot being so thin this season, unless his bat is on fire and they feel they need to have him in the lineup on days he's not catching, I'm not sure we will see that come into play (barring a rash of injuries).
Will Plattner (Jr)- Plattner transferred in from Ole Miss before the '24 season and redshirted last season. He's got a more than capable bat and glove and will get plenty of playing time this year. Back in the summer, he was slated to also play some in the outfield, but the depth issues at the catching spot pretty much nixed that plan for now. He's a hard worker who the coaching staff loves.
Luke Vaughn (So)- Vaughn was expected to get a much bigger role this season, but unfortunately he got injured in the fall and will have to redshirt this time around. I say that to point out though that the catcher spot is now really thin, and Neal and Plattner both need to avoid any major injuries. The staff is high on Vaughn's abilities and future though, especially behind the plate as a catcher.
Infielders
Will Hodo (Sr)- Hodo is a starter that can play 1B or LF/RF if need be, but he will occupy the DH spot more often than not. You want his bat in the lineup and he's also a guy that can steal some bases. He is one of the 3 returning starters from last season and a team leader. He's a power bat who can drive in runs but he's also a guy that has a very patient and smart approach to each at bat. He will make the pitcher throw strikes and he isn't shy at all about taking a walk and passing the bat. He led the team last year with 34 walks to go along with 10 HBP's.
Jason Torres (Jr)- Torres transferred in from Miami and will be the guy at 1B. He brings an elite glove on defense which was needed at that spot. If his bat gets hot and translates well to SEC pitching, he will get some time at DH too and he also has the ability to play 3rd. He missed the final portion of the season in Miami last year and had to have Tommy John surgery. The recovery limited him this fall in Tuscaloosa, but he's healthy and ready to go now for the start of the season. He brings a really good approach at the plate thanks to a good eye and has plenty of pop in his bat. He'll slide into the cleanup spot in the order and will have ample opportunities to drive in runs with the 3 guys ahead of him.
Justin Lebron (So)- I told you this time last year to buy Lebron stock and I hope you listened. Last season as a freshman, he got better and better at the plate as the season went on. He won't be sneaking up on any opposing teams this season, but his talent and ability lead me to believe he will adjust to his sophomore season just fine. This kid is special. When they talk about 5 tool players, Lebron checks all the boxes, plus he's a good dude on top of it. He's a top end 1st round talent that Alabama is really lucky to have.
Brennen Norton (Sr)- Norton was a 3 year starter at Jacksonville State who transferred to Alabama after last season. He will be the starter at 2B. The ball jumps off his bat similar to how it did with Gage Miller last season... he just hits some absolute piss missiles. He should provide an increase in production offensively from the 2B spot over last year. He's solid with the glove in the field.
Garrett Staton (RSr)- Staton is a transfer from Samford who will play 3B but has the ability to play 2B if needed. Additionally, he's another guy with some speed that can get after it on the bases and make things happen there as well. It would be really, really hard to replace Gage Miller's production from last year, but Norton is no slouch himself. I think he will adapt to SEC pitching pretty well and provide a steady bat in the lineup with good power.
Jon Young Jr. (Fr)- Young is having to wait his turn to take over duties at SS but that doesn't mean he won't find some playing time. His glove is too good and his bat is too promising to keep him stashed away all year on the bench. While Lebron didn't miss any games at SS last season, Young will be there to fill in as needed. In the meantime, he will get a look at 2B and maybe even 3B to get him some AB's and experience. He is a big part of Bama's future plans.
JoJo Williamson (Fr)- Like Young, Williamson may have a hard time finding a lot of AB's with the guys in front of him, but the staff really likes his bat. If there's an injury or two he's a guy that can plug in nicely, especially at 2B.
Outfielders
Bryce Fowler (RJr)- Fowler comes in from Pearl River CC where he led off and hit .419 with a 1:1 K:BB ratio and had 24 steals last season. He will leadoff for Bama too, and hitting in front of Justin Lebron, he will see some decent pitches along the way. He's got some pop in his bat and will put a few over the fence. He's also got a very good glove and will play center or right in the outfield (usually in right thanks to his strong arm).
Rickie Bonomolo (Jr)- Bonolomo is a transfer from Wabash Valley College. He's another very athletic player who can cover a ton of ground with a good glove in the outfield. At the plate, he's got enough pop to hit some out of the park on occasion, but he's a doubles machine and is an absolute burner on the basepaths. He will be the starter in CF and likely hit in the 9 hole to begin the season.
Kade Snell (RSr)- Snell is another of the 3 returning starters and will man the LF spot, but can play RF if/when needed. The former auburn player split his time last season as a part time pitcher, but will focus solely on his position play and hitting this year. He had the 3rd highest batting average on the team last season at .324, and that comes with decent power and a pretty good eye which should all be improved now that he isn't having to split time on the mound in practices. Snell is also the team captain for 2025 which tells you how his teammates feel about him.
Coleman Mizell (So)- Mizell will also get some time in the outfield and if his bat starts to reach its potential, those opportunities will go up. He will also be a leading candidate at DH. He has a prosing bat that Vaughn really likes. He is going to be one of the better players off the bench when he's not in the lineup.
Peyton Steele (Fr)- Steele is a true freshman from the baseball prospect rich grounds of Hartselle, AL. Even as a freshman, he already swings a pretty respectable bat. Down the road, he's going to be a major contributor. He can play at a number of spots in the field, both OF and INF if needed. I'd imagine he will get some playing time in midweeks and blowouts and also some chances off the bench as a RH pinch hitter in some situations.
Other position players who will either redshirt or most likely have very limited roles starting out
Sean Griggs (Fr)- Freshman infielder out of NJ.
Ahmaad Duff (Fr)- A speedy freshman outfielder out of IN.
Possible opening day lineup (with R/L/S batting) with their 2024 stats
RF- Fowler (L) .419, 11 HR, 52 RBI (Pearl River CC)
SS- Lebron (R) .338, 12 HR, 37 RBI
DH- Hodo (L) .263, 11 HR, 38 RBI
1B- Torres (R) .331, 8 HR, 32 RBI (Miami)
LF- Snell (L) .324, 6 HR, 30 RBI
2B- Norton (R) .318, 12 HR, 39 RBI (Jacksonville St.)
C- Neal (L) .276, 9 HR, 31 RBI (LSU)
3B- Staton (R) .319, 19 HR, 69 RBI (Samford)
CF- Bonomolo Jr. (R) .449, 7 HR, 62 RBI (Wabash Valley)
Bench
Mizell (L) .190, 1 HR, 3 RBI
Plattner (R) DNP - Redshirted
Steele (R) High School
Young Jr. (L) High School
Williamson (L) High School
Pitching Outlook
The strength of this year's team is in the pitching depth. Adams and Quick are two heavyweights at the top of the weekend rotation. Behind them though, the strength is in the numbers, and there is a good number of both seasoned and capable young arms. A valid concern is the fact that every season Bama seems to lose one of, if not their top overall arm, to an injury. Hopefully, this season will bring better luck. Injuries are part of it, but if the staff can navigate around any serious issues with their better pitchers for once, it sure would be nice. Behind the duo of Adams and Quick, there are about 5 or 6 guys who could legitimately take the ball on Sunday and keep Bama in ball games based on their potential. The question is, will someone take hold of the job (Bobby Alcock will get first crack at it)? Or will we see some shuffling there in the hopes of finding a guy that can pitch to his potential on a weekly basis? If the Tide can get the Sunday spot locked down, Bama should be in pretty good shape on the mound starting games, no matter the day.
The good news extends to the bullpen where again, the team is stocked with talented arms, both upperclassmen and freshmen. They have several guys with SEC expereince who will compete for the high leverage spots and while grad transfer Carson Ozmer is the designated closer, there are a few other guys that can step in and close out games if/when needed. Vaughn and his staff also have some relievers this year that can and will give opposing hitters different looks with their arm angles and deliveries, something they couldn't really offer last season. The pen isn't overflowing with southpaws, but barring some injuries, they should be able to navigate that without too many issues.
Pitchers (starting with weekend starters)
LHP Zane Adams (So)- Zane will be at the top of the rotation on Friday night's for Bama. Barring a disastrous year, it'll be his second and final year with Bama before being drafted. He was thrust into a big role last year as a freshman after injuries to other starters, but he more than held his own and most importantly, improved as the season wore on. His fb runs up to mid 90's and he has developed an excellent changeup that should really pay dividends this spring. He also sports a solid curve to go along with it. His ceiling is very high and Bama needs him healthy and on the mound each weekend.
RHP Riley Quick (RSo)- Quick is also a weekend rotation piece (was the Saturday starter last year, and will be the same this year), but he's still working his way back from Tommy John surgery and will be on a strict pitch count, especially early in the season. Quick is another guy that has garnered plenty of attention from scouts and has all the tools they like. His freshman season, control was a bit of an issue, but he showed good improvement in that area last year before his injury. His fb can run up to 99-100 with a heavy sink and he also sports a plus slider and change. If you're a casual fan and just want someone to cheer for, Quick is your guy. There isn't another dude in the dugout who cares more about and loves Alabama more than he does. I pity the schools that have tried to lure him away with money.
RHP Bobby Alcock (RSr)- Alcock was injured last year and didn't play (shoulder surgery) after transferring in from Gardner-Webb (where he was the Big South Pitcher of the Year in 2023), but he's now healthy going into this season. He's going to get first shot in the Sunday starter's slot. There's other options there if need be, but Alcock will get first crack at it. He's a hard throwing righty who got it to the mid to upper 90's before his injury... He's still working on getting that velocity back, but he has it in the low 90's right now. If he comes back strong, he could very well nail down that Sunday role. If not, he may get bumped to midweek starter status or possibly long relief on the weekends. But this is a good sign both for him (post injury), and for the pitching depth overall, that he's already the #3 guy on the weekend.
Pitchers who may start midweek games or at times on weekends if need be
RHP Tyler Fay (RSo)- Fay was a serious candidate to get the Sunday starter role to begin the season. On the mound, he's been a bit of a mixed bag thus far in his young Bama career. He has a lot of potential, which he has flashed at times, he just hasn't been consistent yet up to this point. But he's at that stage now where he can (and should) make some big strides. He led the team in total appearances last season with 23. He sports a really nice 2 seamer (sinker) that sits mid-90's and he compliments it with a good slider and change. When he's getting good movement on his stuff and hitting his spots, he can be a handful for opposing hitters. If Alcock falters in the Sunday role, I'd expect Fay to get a look there. Beyond that, the staff will have to figure out if he's more valuable as a midweek starter or a weekend reliever.
LHP Beau Bryans (Jr)- Bryans transferred to Bama after 2 seasons at Jones CC (MS). He will be a starter candidate for Sunday or possibly midweek games, otherwise, he will be a lefty out of the pen. He's expected to contribute one way or another though. A funky cross-body delivery from the lower arm slot combined with a fastball that tops out at 96. He's a high strikeout guy who can be hell on left handed hitters. He throws a nice change up and slider as well. He has had some control issues that need to be ironed out, but if he can get dialed in on his location consistently, he could be a major piece on the front end of the rotation or backend of the pen.
RHP JT Blackwood (Jr)- Blackwood is a transfer from Wallace State CC (AL) where he started 12 games last season. He has good control of his pitches which include a fb that runs into the low 90's, a good slider, a cutter, and a changeup. He's another option as a starter or bullpen arm. It's going to be a big leap from Wallace State for Blackwood, but he's got the ability and stuff to get it done.
RHP Anthony Pesci (Fr)- Pesci is a freshman out of Michigan. He's got a long but lean 6'4" frame. He has a lively fb that can creep into the mid 90's to go with a curve, slider, and a really nice change up. It isn't easy for a freshman pitcher to come in and make a big impact in year 1, but Pesci has the stuff and ability to find a role, possibly as a midweek starter. Down the road he projects as a frontline starter on the weekends.
RHP Hagan Banks (RJr)- Banks only got 3 starts (4 appearances) into the '24 season before he was shelved with an elbow injury. He's back healthy now and has had some success out of the pen and in his short time as a starter. I love watching Banks when he's on the mound... he wastes no time and goes right after hitters... one of the quicker workers you'll see. As for his stuff, he's got really good control, a fb that tops out at 90, a curve, and a slider. His 4 seamer has a lot of run on it, or at least did pre-injury. Not sure what role they are going to put him in coming off his injury, but I'd assume we will see him out of the pen and on a lower pitch count until the season warms up.
RHP Aeden Finateri (Sr)- Finateri has struggled since transferring in from Georgia Tech after last season. He was a weekend starter for the Yellow Jackets and pitched 75 innings last season. The hope is that he will get back on track this spring. If so, he'd have a good shot at a midweek starter spot. But, a role in the pen may be what he needs to get recalibrated. On the mound, he offers a low 90's fb, a curve, and a change up.
Pitchers who will contribute out of the pen
RHP Austin Morris (RSo)- Morris carved himself into a bullpen role last year and showed a promising upside as the season wore on. Morris, who throws from the 3/4 arm slot, sports a bag full of pitches including a fb in the mid 90's to go with a sinker, a slider that has good run, a curve and a change. Morris could fill any number of roles on the staff this season from starter (if needed) to long relief to high leverage relief, but he is expected to start out in the pen.
RHP Aidan Moza (Sr)- Moza hit a few bumps in the road during his junior season after having a fantastic sophomore campaign UA, but when he's dialed in and attacking hitters, he's a key part of this staff. If he can pair his 2025 stuff with his 2023 consistency, he will be a high impact arm that can pitch in any situation and get key outs, including closing out games which he's done before (against the Vols last season). As far as his stuff, he has good command with a fb that creeps up to 96-97 to go along with a nasty slider, a cutter, and a nice curveball.
RHP Ariston Veasey (So)- Veasey is a hard throwing righty who can run it up to 96 to go with a sharp slider and nice curve. He only had one appearance last season where he walked 2 and didn't record an out at Samford, but he's expected to have a bigger role in the pen this season. He's a guy that seems to be improving at a pretty rapid pace as well. Worth noting too that Veasey was once a catching prospect as well coming out of high school, and that could come into play with the depth issues that Bama has at the catching spot going into the season.
RHP Coulson Buchanan (Sr)- Buchanan had 19 appearances in relief last year for the Tide, some in higher leverage situations and some in mop up situations. That experience should serve him well as he enters his senior season. The former Wofford transfer isn't going to light up radar guns but he can still miss bats and throw strikes, relying mostly on a fb and curveball. Mixed in among some of the harder throwers in the pen, his stuff can really give opposing hitters fits at times.
LHP Matthew Heiberger (So)- Heiberger had 16 relief appearances last season for Alabama even though he missed a month of action with an injury. He's developed into a high leverage lefty reliever who can get outs when needed. He brings a very lively fb in the mid-90's, a slider, a really good change up, and slow curve.
RHP Braylon Myers (Sr)- Myers is another key piece to Bama's bullpen who has the stuff and the SEC experience to really make some noise. He finished with a 2.73 ERA over 20 appearances in 2024, which included closing out a few games. That's a role he can take on again this year when called upon, but he is going to be a valuable piece in the pen regardless. His fb is low 90's and complemented by a sweeping slider. As mentioned, he can close out games if need be but regardless he will be a high leverage guy who will be tasked with getting the tough outs when needed.
RHP Carson Ozmer (Grad)- Ozmer is a grad transfer from Penn where he was their closer (he got the win in relief 2 years ago against auburn in their regional going 3.1 innings and giving up just 1 hit). He is set to assume the same role for Bama this season, or at the very least, settle into a setup and high leverage role. Ozmer, who has averaged over a strikeout per inning in his college career, offers more of a sidearm delivery with the ability to change his arm slot to 3/4. From the lower arm angle he can run his fb/sinker up to 90 to pair with a very effective slider (as most sub slot guys do), and a change up. He adds 3 or 4 MPH to the fb with his higher 3/4 slot delivery. The staff feels good about his ability to close out games.
RHP Packy Bradley-Cooney (Sr)- Bradley-Cooney is a transfer from Campbell where he was a backend reliever and closer for the Camels. While the SEC is going to be a big step up for him, he was plenty effective at Campbell posting 6 saves and holding opposing hitters to a .193 average. He's set to work out of the pen for Bama and his success will ultimately determine his role from there. His fb sits in the low 90's and he has a solid slider to go with it.
LHP Connor Ball (RJr)- Ball redshirted last season after seeing action in 11 games in 2023. He's a quick worker on the mound who is more crafty than he is overpowering (fb sits 88-89) and relies heavily on his slider. I'm not sure what role he will settle into this season, but he's at least another lefty option who has some decent experience out of the pen who throws strikes.
Other pitchers who will be fighting for a role or possibly redshirting in some cases
LHP Connor Lehman (Fr)- Lehman is a freshman who will have a chance to earn a role, as you can never have too many southpaws in the pen. He's green and still getting better, but as of now he's got a FB in the low 90's, a really good slider, a curve, and a change. He's going to need to continue to develop but he will more than likely get a chance to contribute at some point this season, IMO.
RHP Jonathan Stevens (So)- Stevens didn't play in his freshman season last year. He brings a low 90's fb, slider, curve, and change up. He's another guy that will likely get a chance at some point, maybe midweek relief, and if he makes the most of it, could see his role expand.
RHP Sam Mitchell (So)- Mitchell appeared in 5 games last year in relief. He's got an imposing frame on the mound at 6'7" who throws a fb, curve, and slider.
RHP Jack Ketchum (Fr)- Ketchum is a true freshman with a promising future on the mound. He's going to need some time to develop and fulfill his potential, but it wouldn't be a surprise to see him contribute in relief this season. He brings a fb that will top 90, a sharp slider, and a really good change up.
RHP/IF Andre Modungo (Fr)- Modungo is another true freshman worth mentioning. He was signed out of IMG Academy in FL. Like fellow freshman Pesci, he's got a tall frame at 6'5". He was/is highly regarded as a 3rd/1st baseman out of HS but there's still a focus on his development as a pitcher. On the mound his fb sits in the low 90's to go with a curve and change up. He could emerge as an impact arm this season, but he certainly projects to be an excellent player down the road regardless. With his bat and potential to play both ways, I could see him eventually being some sort of version of former Florida 2 way star Jac Caglianone. He's got plenty of talent, with his bat and his arm, that much is for certain.
RHP Danny Heintz (RSr)- Heintz is another transfer from Penn, where he appeared in 8 games last season. He brings an imposing frame at 6'6" and matches it with pretty good power from the hill where his fb hits mid 90's to go with a solid slider.
RHP Zack Kittrell (Jr)- A transfer from Pensacola State College. He missed the 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery but is good to go now. He has good command and throws a fb, change, and a slider (which is probably his best pitch).
RHP Ashton Alston (Fr)- Another tall (6'5") freshman out of TN with a lively low 90's fb and promising slider and curve.
RHP Jackson Hunter (Fr)- A freshman from Hazel Green HS. Offers a low 90's fb, curve, slider, and change.
RHP Nash Wagner (Fr)- Yet another 6'5" freshman, this time out of IN. Throws a low 90's fb, curve, slider.
LHP Carson Kuehne (Fr)- Yes, another 6'5" freshman. He's out of IMG Academy. Has the fb, curve, slider, and change quartet in his arsenal but will likely need time to develop.
RHP Egan Lowery (So)- Sidearmer with good movement on his fb and slider. He could also be an option for emergency catcher if needed.
Season Outlook
As for the season outlook as a whole, it's just hard to say. The non-conference slate is pretty light as usual other than the 3 day tournament in Jacksonville where Bama will play Coastal Carolina and NC State. But in mid-March when SEC play begins, the Tide starts off in the deep end with a series at national champ runner ups Texas A&M and then 3 at home against defending champions Tennessee. Then they get Oklahoma at home, a series they must win followed by a series in auburn, a team that will be improved from last year. That's followed by a home series vs. Mississippi State and then it's on the road to LSU which is always tough. In late April, Mizzou visits for a 3 game series and then it's off to Vandy. As the regular season winds down, Bama welcomes a very good Georgia squad to town before finishing up on the road with a final series against Florida before the SEC Tournament begins the following week. As you can see, Bama will be running through a minefield. Stealing a couple of series' on the road would be massive (last year Bama only took 1 road series [from Ole Miss] but struggled overall going 4-11 away from home overall). You'd love to see them hold the line at home (win every series), but that's all but an impossible ask... especially with the Vols and UGA Bulldogs on the slate. The good news is, last year's home schedule was really tough, but Bama did win 4 of the 5 weekends and went 9-6 overall. So, 13-17 in 2024. With the schedule and roster this season, I think that 13-17 is very much in play again, and right about where the Tide will end up. Some bad luck, 11-19 in the league is probably the floor. Some good luck, 15-15 in league play is probably the ceiling. But, predictions mean nothing. It'll all be decided on the field(s) and thankfully, after a long wait, the time for that begins tomorrow. Roll Tide...
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