The Georgia Bulldogs bolster their roster with a potent pitching staff.

As college baseball continues to grow in stature and competitiveness, the Georgia Bulldogs have consistently positioned themselves as one of the premier programs in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Under head coach Scott Stricklin, Georgia has made significant strides, both on the field and in their overall recruitment strategy, which includes a commitment to building a formidable pitching staff.

Pitching is the backbone of any successful baseball team, and for the Bulldogs, their 2025 roster is shaping up to be one of the most potent in recent memory. The coaching staff, including Stricklin and pitching coach Fred Corral, has focused on developing a well-rounded pitching rotation and bullpen that can compete with the best teams in the nation. With a combination of experienced players, emerging talent, and top-tier recruits, Georgia’s pitching staff is poised to be a driving force in their pursuit of an SEC title and potentially a College World Series appearance.

This article will explore how the Georgia Bulldogs have bolstered their pitching staff in recent years, highlighting key returnees, exciting newcomers, and the strategy behind their pitching development that could propel them to new heights in the 2025 season.

The Importance of Pitching in College Baseball

In the world of college baseball, pitching is paramount to success. The SEC, in particular, is known for its strong pitching staffs, with schools like Vanderbilt, LSU, and Florida consistently producing top-notch hurlers who go on to excel in Major League Baseball (MLB). For Georgia to remain competitive in this elite conference, their pitching staff must not only keep opposing teams from scoring but also be able to withstand the pressures of playing in high-stakes games throughout the season.

A team’s pitching depth is one of the most critical aspects of their success. College baseball teams typically rely on a combination of starters, long relievers, and closers to navigate through a grueling 56-game regular season, followed by postseason play. Georgia has recognized the need for a balanced and dynamic pitching staff, which is why they have invested significant time and resources into improving their rotation and bullpen in recent years.

Key Returnees on Georgia’s Pitching Staff

The 2025 pitching staff for Georgia is filled with a mix of experience and youthful potential, with several key returnees expected to play pivotal roles. These returning players bring a wealth of experience and talent that will be crucial as the Bulldogs aim for SEC and national success.

1. Jonathan Cannon (RHP)

One of the most significant returnees for Georgia in 2025 is Jonathan Cannon, a right-handed pitcher who has already established himself as one of the top pitchers in the SEC. Cannon was a highly regarded recruit out of high school and has lived up to the hype with strong performances on the mound throughout his time at Georgia.

Cannon’s fastball, which has been clocked in the mid-90s, along with his secondary pitches like a sharp slider and changeup, make him a difficult pitcher to face. His ability to mix his pitches and keep hitters off balance has made him a key piece of Georgia’s pitching staff. Cannon’s experience in the SEC will be invaluable as he takes on a leadership role within the rotation in 2025.

2. Jack Gowen (LHP)

Another critical returnee is Jack Gowen, a left-handed pitcher who has been an effective starter for the Bulldogs. Gowen is known for his command of the strike zone and his ability to pitch deep into games, which makes him a key asset for the Bulldogs in both SEC and postseason play. Left-handed pitchers are always highly valued in college baseball, and Gowen’s ability to mix pitches and generate swings and misses gives Georgia a strong lefty presence in their rotation.

As Gowen enters his junior season, he will be counted on to be a consistent performer and a reliable arm for the Bulldogs. If Gowen continues to progress and refine his pitching mechanics, he could emerge as one of the best pitchers in the SEC.

3. Nolan Crisp (RHP)

Another important returnee is Nolan Crisp, a right-handed pitcher who has shown flashes of brilliance in his time with Georgia. Crisp possesses a lively fastball and a devastating curveball that allows him to generate strikeouts in key moments. He has also shown the ability to be a versatile pitcher, capable of being used as both a starter and a reliever.

Crisp’s ability to pitch effectively in high-pressure situations will be essential for Georgia as they face some of the toughest teams in the country. If he continues to develop his secondary pitches and command of the strike zone, Crisp could be one of the breakout stars for Georgia in 2025.

Newcomers to Georgia’s Pitching Staff

In addition to their returning players, Georgia has added several talented newcomers to their pitching staff in 2025. These recruits have been scouted as potential difference-makers and are expected to make an immediate impact on the mound.

1. Charlie Goldstein (RHP)

Charlie Goldstein is one of the most highly anticipated freshmen pitchers for Georgia in 2025. Goldstein, a right-handed pitcher out of California, has drawn significant attention for his impressive fastball, which regularly touches 95 mph, along with his ability to mix in a sharp slider and a developing changeup. His pitch repertoire and ability to throw strikes make him an exciting prospect for the Bulldogs.

Goldstein’s upside is undeniable, and he has the potential to contribute right away as either a starter or in a high-leverage relief role. If Goldstein can adjust to the college game quickly and maintain his command of the strike zone, he could be a major asset for Georgia’s pitching staff.

2. Drew Kelly (LHP)

Another freshman to watch is Drew Kelly, a left-handed pitcher who has garnered significant attention for his poise and composure on the mound. Kelly, who hails from Georgia, has a good mix of velocity and movement on his pitches. His ability to keep hitters off balance with his changeup and curveball, coupled with his fastball that sits comfortably in the low 90s, will allow him to be effective in various situations.

Kelly’s development over the course of the season will be critical for Georgia, as they will need a dependable left-handed option in their bullpen and rotation. If Kelly can prove himself against SEC hitters early in the season, he could emerge as a key contributor for the Bulldogs.

3. Dylan Ross (RHP)

Dylan Ross is another talented freshman who could make an immediate impact on Georgia’s pitching staff. Ross is a big, physical right-handed pitcher who brings velocity and power to the mound. With a fastball that consistently reaches 94 mph and a slider that can generate swings and misses, Ross has the potential to be a game-changer for Georgia.

Ross’s development will be a crucial factor in Georgia’s success. If he can find consistency with his secondary pitches and command of the strike zone, he could quickly establish himself as one of the most important pitchers for the Bulldogs.

Georgia’s Pitching Philosophy and Development

One of the reasons Georgia’s pitching staff has the potential to be so successful in 2025 is the program’s commitment to developing pitchers. Under the guidance of pitching coach Fred Corral, Georgia has been known for its ability to develop young talent and get the most out of its pitchers.

Corral’s philosophy revolves around developing pitchers who have command of the strike zone, mix their pitches effectively, and can handle the mental and physical demands of college baseball. His success in working with both veteran pitchers and newcomers has been a key factor in Georgia’s recent success on the mound.

The Bulldogs’ Path to Success in 2025

As the Georgia Bulldogs prepare for the 2025 season, their pitching staff will be one of the main factors in their quest for an SEC title and a deep run in the NCAA tournament. With a combination of experienced pitchers like Jonathan Cannon, Jack Gowen, and Nolan Crisp, as well as talented newcomers like Charlie Goldstein, Drew Kelly, and Dylan Ross, Georgia has a balanced and dynamic staff that can compete with the best teams in college baseball.

However, it’s not just about the talent on paper. Georgia will need to stay healthy, maintain consistency, and develop their pitchers over the course of the season. The SEC is one of the toughest conferences in the country, and the Bulldogs will face stiff competition from teams like Vanderbilt, LSU, and Florida. But with a potent pitching staff that can keep opposing teams at bay, Georgia has the tools necessary to contend for the top spot in the conference and potentially earn a spot in the College World Series.

In conclusion, the Georgia Bulldogs’ 2025 pitching staff is shaping up to be one of the most formidable in recent years. With a blend of returning talent and exciting newcomers, the Bulldogs are poised to continue their success on the mound and be a contender in college baseball’s most competitive conference.