Arkansas is going with a surprising choice on the mound to open the Fayetteville Regional.
The Razorbacks announced on Thursday afternoon that Aiden Jimenez will be on the bump as the Razorbacks face North Dakota State on Friday night. By doing so, the Razorbacks are saving their top rotation arms for later on in the regional in potential matchups against either Kansas or Creighton.
Friday's starter: RHP Aiden Jimenez pic.twitter.com/joEVasXllz
— Arkansas Baseball (@RazorbackBSB) May 29, 2025No. 1 seeds often choose to save their ace for later in the weekend during the postseason, but Arkansas is taking that strategy a step further. While Jimenez had a good season for the Hogs, he’s largely been a bullpen piece this season. He’s made 18 appearances so far this season, but just one has come as a starter.
Statistically, Jimenez has been excellent this year. In 34.2 innings of work, he’s posted an ERA of just 3.37 and has struck out 34 batters. He’s also allowed just 1 home run all season, which has allowed him to limit damage despite permitting opponents to hit .258 against him this season. Jimenez is best-known for his control as he walked just 7 batters in 2025 entering the NCAA Tournament.
By starting Jimenez, Arkansas will save Zach Root, Gabe Gaeckle and Landon Beidelschies for later in the series. Root was Arkansas’s best starting pitcher during the regular season as he boasts a 4.07 ERA in 79.1 innings. He struck out 106 batters this season, which places him in the top-25 nationally.
Time will tell if this gamble from Dave Van Horn will pay off or not. First pitch against North Dakota State is set for 2 p.m. local time on Friday afternoon.
Arkansas baseball makes surprising SP choice to open Fayetteville Regional Saturday Down South.
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