Photo by Keyli Chisesi | Go Big Blue Country
Kentucky senior second baseman Luke Becker is putting together his best season as a Wildcat.
The Fairmont, Minnesota native has been an on-base machine for the Wildcats, reaching base safely in all 33 games this season. In all, going back to his summer in the Northwoods, Becker has reached base in 77 straight games.
“I’m just trying to have quality at-bats,” said Becker following a win vs. Miami (Ohio) in March. “Whether it’s walks or hits, whatever it is, I’m just trying to grind out the pitcher and have a quality at-bat.”
Becker had a solid season for the Wildcats as a junior where he hit .287 with 7 home runs and 46 RBI. He’s doing even better in his final season in Lexington, as he owns a .325 average to go along with 5 home runs and 22 RBI. Additionally, Becker has walked 27 times and owns a .464 on-base percentage.
Becker entered the season with high expectations. He was voted Preseason Second Team All-SEC by the Leagues coaches and the work he put in is paying off.
“Just working with coach Guill, he knows his stuff,” said Becker on his improvement at the plate. “Just trying to get on the same page as him and doing his drills every day. He knows a lot about hitting.”
The Wildcats are still trying to piece things together after losing several key players from last year’s team to the draft and graduation. Becker made the move from third base to his natural position at second base, something he feels more comfortable with.
“Yeah, I love it,” said Becker about the move to second. “Third base was alright, it’s just a little challenging and something I haven’t done. Second base, definitely comfortable over there.”
Kentucky is 23-10 overall on the season, including winning 5 of the last 6 games. Becker’s bat is also heating up, along with the weather, as the Wildcats are now in the heart of a tough SEC schedule.
In Wednesday’s 7-5 win vs. Western Carolina, Becker went 1-for-4 at the plate. His lone hit was a solo home run, his second in as many games and 13th for his UK career. It has taken time but the team is beginning to come together to live up to their lofty preseason ranking of No. 8 in the country.
“Oh, we’re coming. We’re not there, yet. Last year’s team took a while and this year’s team is taking time. We’ll get there.”
