East Michigan News

Eastern Michigan University’s Drew Beckner has been named the Mid-American Conference Pitcher of the Week. This recognition was announced on Monday, April 14, by the conference office.

In a standout performance, Beckner, a senior left-hander, excelled in his recent start against the University of Toledo Rockets on April 11. He tied his NCAA Division I career high with eight strikeouts, matching this figure for the third time this season and in consecutive games, while allowing no earned runs over 6.2 innings. He restricted opposing hitters to a .174 average and effectively managed situations with runners on base, limiting batters to a .200 average.

This accolade highlights Beckner’s breakout season during his second NCAA Division I campaign. Across nine starts, he has pitched 49.2 innings—the fourth highest in the MAC—striking out 50 batters, the third most in the conference. He has maintained a 3.44 ERA, ranked fifth, allowed 19 earned runs, and limited batters to a .219 average—also fifth in the MAC. Beckner holds a 2-1 record, with his two wins tied for the fifth most in the MAC.

Beckner is on track to achieve NCAA Division I career-best figures in innings pitched (76.5), strikeouts (78), and hits allowed (64). Currently, he holds career-best averages in ERA (3.44), WHIP (1.31), and batting average against (.219).

This is the first pitcher of the week award for Beckner and the third for the EMU team this season. Previously, Logan Hugo and Devan Zirwas received the honor as position players in February and March, respectively.

He is the first Eastern pitcher to obtain this award since Nick Chittum, the current pitching development assistant, was honored last year.

The team is scheduled to play against the Great Danes of Albany in a three-game series from April 17 to 19.