The Florida Gators have picked up their fourth pitcher through the transfer portal this offseason as Ernesto Lugo-Canchola of DII Northwest Nazarene committed to UF, according to Jacob Rudner of Baseball America. Lugo-Canchola posted an impressive 13-0 record with a 2.00 ERA across 94.2 innings in 2025. The 6’5, 230 pound left-handed struck out 103 batters to 44 walks in his lone season with the Nighthawks. complete story on front page
Looks like he walked a batter every other innings, on average, while striking ou t 1 per inning. If he played JUCO 1 year, 2 at Utah, and 1 at Div. II, does the Div. II not count?
Like the DII catcher we are bringing in from Lenoir Rhyne, it will be interesting to see if this kid can make the jump to the high DI level. What I like about Lugo-Canchola is the fact he was 4-0 in the DII playoffs (including a win over powerhouse and eventual champion Tampa) with a low 1.00ish ERA. What I don't like is that he walks too many hitters and he will need to improve his command to be successful next season.
I don't know too much about this guy but not all walks are equal. I don't care if it Babe Ruth at bat I HATE lead-off walks. Make the guy earn it. Now the other team's best hitter is up, two outs, one or two RISP and first base open I don't mind a walk very much.
it seems that the only question should be whether or not Sully is capable of assessing and improving new pitcher talent. I assume that he is, so I’m happy with the get.
