SEC Baseball: Preseason power rankings for 2022 season

By Matt Melton | Feb 15, 2022

OMAHA, NEBRASKA - JUNE 30: Luke Hancock #20 of the Mississippi St. reacts after tagging out Parker Noland #25 of the Vanderbilt in a double play in the bottom of the first inning during game three of the College World Series Championship at TD Ameritrade Park Omaha on June 30, 2021 in Omaha, Nebraska. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

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Auburn Tigers (Photo by Mike Zarrilli/Getty Images) /

12. Auburn Tigers

Butch Thompson’s Tigers are coming off a 25-27 2021 season, one that saw Auburn go 10-20 in SEC Baseball play. Entering his seventh season on the Plains, Thompson does have an experienced team entering the year, but one that is missing some key names from a year ago.

The biggest question for the Tigers entering the year comes from the starting rotation, in particular replacing pitchers Cody Greenhill, Jack Owen, and Richard Fitts. Because of this, Auburn will likely be counting on right-hander’s Trace Bright, Joseph Gonzalez, and Mason Barnett, as well as some of their transfer and freshman additions.

As for the lineup, Auburn will have to replace three-of-four starting infielders in Ryan Bliss, Rankin Woley, and Tyler Miller, as well as two starting outfielders in Steven Williams and Judd Ward. The Tigers do however return some pieces as well such as Brody Moore, Kason Howell, and Cam Hill, as well as having added multiple instant-impact transfers.

The arguable strength of this Tigers team however comes from the bullpen. Among that group, right-hander Blake Burkhalter is the name to know, while Will Morrison and Carson Swilling will both also see extensive time.

Even despite losing some key pieces, Auburn should still be good this season. No, they won’t win the SEC, but they should be in contention for a trip to the postseason.

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