The first weekend of the college baseball season is in the books, and we may have already found the tallest player in the sport.
At least we assume that was the case when 6-foot-9 pitcher Jason Reitz took the mound for St. Mary's College on Sunday. Seriously, SIX-FOOT-NINE! That's the same height as LeBron James, but throwing fastballs instead of bounce passes. Just take a gander at this kid:
Saint Mary's sophomore Jason Reitz is 6'9" ? pic.twitter.com/debt6DZZkJ
— Farm To Fame (@FarmToFame_) February 19, 2024
Not only was Reitz the talk of social media over the weekend for his frame, he wowed SMC fans for his performance against Oakland. He struck out eight hitters over five innings of one-run ball.
Postgame with Jason Reitz after his five innings of one-run ball to help take the series vs. Oakland... @bigdonkey47 #GaelsRise pic.twitter.com/3ozs1N4Hba
— Saint Mary's Baseball (@SMC_Baseball) February 19, 2024
While Reitz doesn't appear to be overpowering with his fastball, his overhead arm slot and height make for a completely unique combination. There isn't a chance any NCAA hitter has ever faced someone quite like this. It must feel like Zeus himself is hurling a heater down from the heavens while you're at the plate.
And for those wondering, no he isn't on stilts. But a few fans did make the comparison to viral sensation Savannah Bananas pitcher Dakota "Stilts" Albritton.
Bro really said pic.twitter.com/1uU5iwvHLv
— Michael Novak (@Mikenovak4_) February 19, 2024
For those unfamiliar with Reitz's game, the 185-pound sophomore starting pitcher hails from San Jose, Calif. He was rated a top-100 right-handed pitcher coming out of high school and last season logged 20 strikeouts in just nine innings despite an ERA of 9.00.
Reitz still has a ways to go in his college baseball career, but we can't help but reminisce about Randy Johnson upon seeing this kid. The Big Unit stood 6-foot-10, and Reitz somehow looks taller.
If he can add some velocity, college baseball hitters better beware.
