As the Miami Hurricanes open the Gainesville Regional, veteran transfer Alex Sosa provides the postseason experience and elite power necessary to bridge the gap between Coral Gables and Omaha.
Miami, FL. – The Miami Hurricanes’ hopes to book a trip to Omaha for the College World Series start in the Gainesville Regional. Before any thoughts of a rematch against the hosting Florida Gators, the Troy Trojans are the first challengers. Coach J.D. Arteaga confirmed that senior left-handed pitcher Rob Evans will start on the mound for Friday’s Regional opener.
Despite bullpen concerns and defensive mishaps, the Hurricanes’ offense has been consistent throughout the season. Part of the hitting success comes from junior catcher Alex Sosa, who transferred to the University of Miami after two years with the North Carolina State Wolfpack. As a freshman, the local Viera native saw immediate success, helping the program reach its fourth College World Series appearance in history.
In eight NCAA Tournament games in 2024, Sosa logged nine hits in 33 at-bats, .273, a double, three runs batted in, and a home run against the Georgia Bulldogs in the Super Regionals. When asking the 21-year-old about knowing what it takes to reach the big stage in Thursday’s media availability, he responded with a hunger to return.
“I want [my teammates] to experience that–I want to experience that for myself again,” Sosa said. “I bring up some past occurrences on what it was like, how special it was, in hopes of these guys wanting it. These guys had the season they had last year. They were one run away from [going to Omaha], they want it extra as well. My job is to make sure these guys know that any team can go.”
Sosa is beyond surpassing career previous numbers: 69 hits in 208 at-bats, .332, 14 doubles, two triples, currently leading the Hurricanes with 17 home runs, 66 runs batted in, 138 total bases, 60 runs scored, and a 1.111 OPS in 56 games, all starts. After returning to South Florida and playing for the program he grew up watching, the local star has an opportunity to further cement himself in University of Miami sports history.
In the past seven games, including three in the ACC Tournament, Sosa has been filling Brylan West’s spot at first base. It’s allowed freshman catcher Alonzo Alvarez to gain further experience behind the plate. The trend is likely to remain intact heading into Friday’s Regional opener.
Despite missing junior All-American third baseman Daniel Cuvet for likely the entire round, Sosa has the experience and power to lead the Hurricanes back to Omaha for the first time since 2016.
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Anthony Aguirre is the Miami Hurricanes beat writer for Roundtable Sports. Contact info: [email protected] | 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
