One of UCF's top players has decided to transfer out of the program.
Kyle Marsh, the Knights' left fielder who was second on the team with a .306 batting average, tells UCFSports.com that he will play elsewhere in 2018, which will be his redshirt junior season.
Marsh had a promising freshman year at UCF in 2015, seeing action both in the field and on the mound as a pitcher. A late-season injury necessitated he undergo Tommy John surgery, forcing him to miss the 2016 season. He was an everyday position player in 2017, helping the Knights win a conference championship and reach their first NCAA Regional in five years, but saw his pitching time scaled back as he only made two appearances for a total of 2.0 innings pitched.
Sources have indicated Marsh was frustrated he went undrafted and believes he needs to focus more on pitching in order to reach the next level. His transfer options are likely limited to Division II schools. Don't be surprised if Embry-Riddle is the destination, given the proximity to his home in Port Orange.
Even before Marsh's departure, UCF's lineup was already set to have a much different look next season. First baseman Rylan Thomas, second baseman Matthew Mika and catchers Logan Heiser and Anthony George return, but every other regular starter - right fielder Eli Putnam, center fielder Luke Hamblin, third baseman Kam Gellinger and shortstop Brennan Bozeman - graduated.
