Image from @autumn_e6humes
The Wildcat softball program received great news on Tuesday, as Autumn Humes, the NCAA Division II National Freshman of the Year, has officially transferred to Kentucky. Head Coach Rachel Lawson announced the news on Tuesday afternoon.
Humes, a native of Bald Knob, Ark., announced her commitment to the Wildcats on July 11th. Humes played her freshman season of college at Harding University in Arkansas and will be eligible to play for the Wildcats this season.
In her lone season at Harding University, she dominated on the mound and at the plate, on the way to being recognized as National Freshman of the Year. In the circle, Humes posted a 33-3 record with a 1.19 ERA, while hitting .346 with seven home runs and 53 RBI.
The addition of Humes is a major help and Coach Lawson understands what the transfer brings to the Wildcats this season.
“Autumn brings experience and power to our young pitching staff,” said Lawson. “Her resume puts her in line to be one of the next great pitchers at Kentucky.”
Humes made her way to Harding University following an outstanding high school career. Over four years, Humes posted a 0.70 ERA in 264+ innings pitched, totaling 89 victories. Not only a force on the mound, Humes also delivered at the dish with a career .520 batting average, to go along with 31 home runs and 190 RBI. Humes strong play led to her being named the Arkansas Gatorade Player of the Year in 2015 and 2016.
This past season, along with taking home National Freshman of the Year honors, Humes was also named an NFCA Second Team All-America and the Great America Conference Freshman of the Year. She was a First Team All-League selection as a pitcher and second team as a hitter, while winning the conference MVP award.
Humes will be a sophomore this season and will have three full years of eligibility with the Wildcats. The right-hander has a new team and a new number, as she will wear #7 for Kentucky, rather than her traditional #6 jersey.
