KU's new catcher hoping to add competitiveness, experience to Jayhawks' lineup

LAWRENCE (KSNT) - KU baseball graduated perhaps the Big 12's best catcher after the 2024 season.

Jake English was named first team all-conference after hitting .318 in his final year of college baseball. The Jayhawks took to the transfer portal to try and replace some of his hitting production, along with experience behind the plate.

KU picked up a commitment from Youngstown State transfer catcher Ian Francis on July 1. Francis played in 128 games over three years with the Penguins, starting 111 times.