Winthrop University Athletics: Nicholas Badillo and Eagles Make Waves in Preseason Poll
Charlotte, N.C. – Share-worthy news comes out of the league office updating us on the current standing of the Big South Conference Preseason All-Conference Team. One name, in particular, is making headlines, Winthrop University sophomore catcher Nicholas Badillo. After a stellar rookie season last year, Badillo continues to shine and was voted onto the prestigious team.
Badillo’s Impeccable Track Record
The outstanding Badillo rocked his freshman season in 2023, participating in 29 games and starting in 26 of them. His commanding presence was well-evidenced by leading the team in batting average (.360), slugging percentage (.540), and an impressive on-base percentage (.453). Bagging himself a spot on the Big South All-Freshman Team, he was also declared the Big South Freshman of the Week on Mar. 27.
The pinnacle of his performance last year came on May 26, against Gardner-Webb, where he played an instrumental role in Winthrop defeating the Runnin’ Bulldogs in the first elimination game of the second day of the tournament at High Point’s Truist Point Stadium. In the longest game in Big South Tournament history, it was Badillo’s walk-off single that clinched a tight victory for Winthrop in the 15th innings, finishing with a victory score of 10-9.
Eagles Fly High in Preseason Poll
The pre-season poll results also came out today, placing the Eagles tied at fourth in the voting for the pre-season poll. USC Upstate leads the chart predicted to win the 2024 Big South title, while Gardner-Webb is forecasted second. High Point standing third, one spot above the Eagles (one first-place vote) and UNC Asheville, both of whom are predicted to finish tied at fourth.
The Big South Baseball Championship will see the top four teams from the final conference standings compete from May 23-25 at Truist Point in High Point, N.C. The champion will receive the Big South’s automatic bid to the NCAA Championship. We look forward to a sensational season of baseball while wishing our teams the best of luck!
Preseason Predictions: A Quick Overview
1 - USC Upstate (7 first-place votes) 79 points 2 - Gardner-Webb 61 points 3 - High Point 50 points T4 - Winthrop (1 first-place vote) 49 points T4 - UNC Asheville 49 points 6 - Presbyterian 39 points 7 - Charleston Southern 32 points 8 - Longwood 27 points 9 - Radford (1 first-place vote) 19 points
