Alabama Freshman left-handed pitcher Garret Rukes is the epitome of the stereotypical “lanky left hander,” at 6’4’, 180 pounds. Rukes has been quite a find for coach Greg Goff’s squad, entering Tuesday’s frigid game against Eastern Illinois with a 1.93 ERA in 9.1 innings pitched. Rukes improved those numbers, pitching a sterling eight innings of shutout ball, allowing only two harmless singles and walking two batters.
Rukes became the first Tide hurler to go more than six innings in a game this season, and he has likely solidified a spot as one of the teams go-to midweek starters.