Arkansas’ Cal Kilgore looking to get right with Catfish

Injuries have held Arkansas catcher Cal Kilgore back recently, but he’s hoping to get back to himself this summer with the Cape Catfish.

Kilgore began his collegiate career at New Mexico State as he played in 35 games his freshman year with the Aggies.

In those 35 games, hit .250 with a .307 on-base percentage while driving in 11 runs.

“It was really good for me,” Kilgore said. “I was around a great group of guys. Not a lot of catchers get to start that early. We ended up winning our conference tournament and making a regional which was an unbelievable experience.”

During the regional, Kilgore suffered a torn labrum which led to him deciding to transfer.

“I decided to enter the portal,” Kilgore said. “I’m still on great terms with all those coaches. Once I got in the portal I had a lot of good opportunities. Arkansas is three hours from my house and it was one of my dream schools as a kid so I couldn’t be happier to be there.”

Because of the injuries suffered, Kilgore redshirted his sophomore year.

“It was the first season I’ve ever not played,” Kilgore said. “It was a little tough but I was with a great group of guys. It was easy to just be a team guy and root everyone on. It was tough not being able to play but I love that place and it’s a great place to be.”

Despite his recent issues with injuries, Kilgore is keeping his summer training regiment the same.

“I haven’t seen live pitching in a long time,” Kilgore said. “Getting here and getting at-bats is big for me and I’m excited to be here.”

Simply just being around a storied program like Arkansas is something that has been beneficial for Kilgore and his game.

“The coaches are great,” Kilgore said. “They’ve helped me so much defensively and offensively. I also get to be around so many guys who are huge recruits and some of the best baseball players I’ve ever played with. It just makes you better because you’re competing with those guys.”

Kilgore and the Catfish are back in action at 6:35 p.m. on Friday, June 23, when they host the Jackson Rockabillys at Capaha Field.

They will then host the Alton River Dragons at 6:35 p.m. on Saturday, June 24, at Capaha Field.