Texas A&M closer Nolan Hoffman a second-team All American

Texas A&M junior closer Nolan Hoffman, known for a distinctinve side-arm delivery and constant self-talk on the mound, has been named to the American Baseball Coaches Association/Rawlings All-America Second Team. Hoffman tied the program record with 14 saves, adding a 4-1 record and an impressive 1.15 ERA.

Hoffman, who transferred to A&M from Hutchinson Community College prior to the 2018 season, quickly endeared himself to the Aggie faithful. His unorthodox delivery and dominant pitching followed an entertaining pre-pitch routine.

Hoffman carried on a constant conversation with himself on the mound, but he has declined to disclose any details of his often demonstrative chatter. At one point in the season he told the media he doesn't say anything to himself, though it was unclear if that was a joke or if perhaps his words are for the hitter in the box.

Hoffman racked up 53 strikeouts in 55 innings of work this season, often putting in more time than a typical closer in his 33 appearances. He worked more than a full inning in 11 of his 14 saves, including a 3 inning save in a 3-1 win against Vanderbilt in the first round of the SEC Tournament in May.

A right-hander with a sinker that pushes into the 90s and a strong slider, Hoffman was drafted in the 5th round of the MLB draft by Seattle. Last week he signed a $300,000 contract with the Mariners.