The Texas Tech baseball team is set to receive a significant boost with the addition of 2024 Men's College World Series champion Robin Villeneuve. The first baseman announced his transfer from Tennessee to the Red Raiders via social media on Friday, marking a notable acquisition for Texas Tech.
Villeneuve, a 6-foot-1, 214-pound powerhouse, joins the Red Raiders after an impressive stint with the Tennessee Volunteers. During his year at Tennessee, Villeneuve made 35 appearances, starting in 24 games. He compiled a solid .288 batting average over 80 at-bats, hit five home runs, drove in 22 runs, and collected three doubles. His offensive prowess was highlighted by a .960 OPS and a .513 slugging percentage.
Before his time at Tennessee, Villeneuve excelled at Weatherford College, where he established himself as a two-time JUCO All-American. His standout 2023 season saw him leading the nation in home runs (28) and ranking second in RBIs (102), along with a remarkable .401 batting average and 24 doubles. His extraordinary performance at Weatherford caught the attention of top programs, eventually leading him to Tennessee.
Texas Tech is looking to fill the void left by Gavin Kash, who transferred to Texas A&M after holding down the first base position at Dan Law Field at Rip Griffin Park for the past two years. In addition to Villeneuve, the Red Raiders have also added first baseman Peyton Schulze from California and outfielder Logan Hughes from Stetson via the transfer portal this offseason.
Villeneuve, who hails from Gatineau, Quebec, is entering his senior season with one year of eligibility remaining. Although he did not appear in any postseason games during Tennessee's championship run, his regular season contributions were significant, making him a valuable addition to the Red Raiders.
Texas Tech and Tennessee opened the 2024 season against each other this past season at Globe Life Field in Arlington as part of the Shiners Children's College Showdown. In that game, Villeneuve went 1-for-1 at the plate in Tennessee's 6-2 victory.
Villeneuve's arrival at Texas Tech signifies a return to the Lone Star State, a move he celebrated on social media with the message, "Let's go back to the Lone Star State." His transfer strengthens the Red Raiders' lineup and underscores the program's ability to attract top talent through the transfer portal.
As the Red Raiders prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Villeneuve, alongside other key transfers, positions Texas Tech as a formidable contender in college baseball. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Villeneuve's power-hitting and experience contribute to the team's success in the 2024 season.
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