The return of UCLA rookie left-handed pitcher Ethan Flanagan makes him one of college baseball’s best comeback stories for 2022.
The last time he played in a high school game was his freshman year at Santa Margarita in 2018. In September of that year, he committed to UCLA. Arm issues prevented him from pitching in 2019, 2020 or 2021. He had Tommy John surgery in 2020.
“It was a very long process, to say the least,” Flanagan said. “I have always had confidence in myself. It was frustrating not to pitch, but I always thought it was good. »
His first official game in four years was on February 22. He started against Pepperdine and struck out eight in 3 2/3 innings on 71 pitches.
“I was excited,” he said. “I was nervous coming in. I tried to take it all slow and take it one step at a time and not let the moment get too big. »
Since then, it has become even more comfortable. In 9 2/3 innings, he has 16 strikeouts, two walks and allowed five hits. His fastball is about the same as when he got injured: he’s approaching 93 mph.
“I know deep down that once you’re in there, nobody cares that this guy hasn’t been around for that long,” he said.
He was able to get through his high school days with Santa Margarita and won a Southern Section Division 2 championship in 2019. He was grateful that UCLA coach John Savage stuck with him, he didn’t. did not withdraw his scholarship offer despite the arm injury and without knowing how. it would affect you.
For high school athletes struggling with arm issues who are being asked to be patient, Flanagan said, “The most important thing is to stay grounded. It’s hard not to kick off your sophomore and third year, then have TJ surgery and not kick off your senior year. Even though I didn’t pitch, I still had confidence that I knew it would be good. »
Now, Flanagan could go places with a healthy arm, a stronger body lifting weights, and improved mechanics to help relieve stress on the arm. And he could also travel a lot if he wants to because he is a citizen of the United States, New Zealand and Switzerland thanks to his parents. Her mother is New Zealand and her father is Swiss.
“I am a triple citizen,” he said.
And a pitcher back to admire.
