Razorbacks 'Dish Club' Finally Finds Starter to Begin Season

Van Horn finally makes decision on who will start behind plate against James Madison

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - There seems to always be a constant over the past decade for Arkansas, and that's always having that one catcher to rely on. For the Razorbacks, this season is different as all four candidates are vying for the starting slot on opening day.

Texas Tech transfer Hudson White, Hudson Polk and Parker Rowland all boast plenty of college experience, while Ryder Helfrick joins the race as a true freshman capable of early playing time. 

Arkansas coach Dave Van Horn seems to have zeroed in on White receiving the nod to start Friday against James Madison. Last season, White played in 49 games for the Red Raiders, starting 35 as catcher or designated hitter. 

As a sophomore, he recorded a .297 batting average with 11 home runs and 49 RBI. He has an above average arm behind the plate, picking off 10 base runners in 2023.

Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Hudson White preparing to start Friday's scrimmage at Baum-Walker Stadium as they continue practices for Feb. 16 opening game :: Andy Hodges / allHOGS Images

"We're probably going to hit our catcher at lead-off," Van Horn said. "Might be the first time I've ever done that. I know that [Craig] Biggio was a pretty good lead-off hitter in college back in the day, so White's a tough out. If he's not catching, he'll be a designated hitter."

With the depth at catcher, Van Horn has built-in opportunities to look at others or give White a breather. Polk and Rowland both received several starts last year and will be dependable pieces as relief options.

"I won't catch [White] all weekend, no doubt," Van Horn said. "I think Helfrick is going to definitely catch. Might see another one. We'll see how it goes. We feel really good about our catchers. I'm sure it will be a question all throughout the year, unless a catcher separates himself, how I'm going to handle it. I don't know, I'm going to let it handle itself right now."

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