Pitcher of the Week: Tommy Blackburn

By Ellie Rand

Braves right-hander Tommy Blackburn (Christopher Newport) won Week 1 Pitcher of the Week honors. He made two appearances totaling 8 innings, allowing just one run for a 1.13 ERA. He allowed just six hits and two walks for a 1.00 WHIP while striking out eight hitters. Opposing hitters hit only .200 during the week.

His first outing came June 2 against the Aces. After allowing a leadoff walk and a single in the opening frame, Blackburn settled in and retired nine of the final 11 hitters he faced.

The only second-inning-run he allowed came on a triple and a passed ball. Blackburn limited the damage, however, and finished his four-inning outing with four strikeouts while stranding three runners in scoring position.

One of his biggest moments came in the fourth inning. After Alexandria put a runner on third with one out, Blackburn took charge, striking out two hitters in consecutive at-bats to cap off his debut.

Five days later, Blackburn drew another start against the Aces and dominated once again. With Aces’ runners on first and second and two outs in the opening inning, Blackburn forced a ground out to end the frame. He then held the Aces scoreless, allowing just one hit over the next three innings while striking out three batters.

Throughout the week, the Chesapeake, Virginia native issued only two walks across eight innings and consistently worked ahead in counts, forcing hitters into uncomfortable at-bats. He threw 81 strikes on 125 pitches, a testament to his high quality pitching and ability to finish hitters.