Key Razorback Starter Back on Shelf With New Injury

Peyton Stovall will have to wait an additional 4-6 weeks before making return for Hogs

Daniel Shi | Feb 7, 2024

Key Razorback Starter Back on Shelf With New Injury /

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Arkansas Razorbacks

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas' highly touted transfer Wehiwa Aloy once said he dreamed of playing alongside the Razorbacks' second baseman Peyton Stovall in an official game. It looks like that dream is going to have to wait a little longer.

With opening day less than 10 days away, the injury bug has taken a major scalp. Stovall suffered a broken foot during Monday's scrimmage. He will not require surgery and is expected to miss 4-6 weeks, per a university spokesperson.

Peyton Stovall Returns with Renewed Energy for Razorbacks

Stovall was just returning from a torn labrum that kept him out for the latter stages of 2023 and for all of fall ball this year. The Haughton, La. native slashed .253/.330/.393 with five home runs and 31 runs batted in just 38 games. Stovall appeared in just four preseason spring scrimmages before suffering the latest injury.

The logical replacement for Stovall is Richmond transfer, Jared Sprague-Lott. Sprague-Lott has been heralded as the potential utility man going into the season.

"He’s maybe our best defender just fielding the ball," Van Horn said in January. "I’m not saying he’s the best shortstop, but as far as just fielding the ball at third and all positions combined, he’s going to be an incredible utility guy and maybe an everyday starter. It’s a good thing."

Sprague-Lott can swing the bat as well, slashing .314/.440/.582 and leading Richmond with 13 home runs. He also racked up second-team Atlantic 10 honors.

The Razorbacks kick off its season without Stovall against James Madison 3 p.m. Feb. 16 against James Madison inside Baum-Walker Stadium. The game will be streamed on SEC Network+.