Zach Root looks to thrive in new home at Arkansas

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) – Landing LHP Zach Root from East Carolina was a massive win for Dave Van Horn and the Razorbacks coaching staff.

The ECU transfer was ranked D1Baseball’s No. 2 Impact Pitcher in this year’s transfer portal cycle. Root looks poised to step into a big time role with the Razorbacks this season.

“Even in high school when college baseball became a reality, Arkansas was the dream school to go to,” Root said. “When they reached out, right then and there, they were already at the top of the list.”

The junior will wear a familiar number for lefties in the Arkansas program, 33. Hagen Smith recently wore the number, in addition to several other Razorback legends.

“[Dave Van Horn] told me a little history, couple all-americans, high round draftpicks, and kind of put some pressure on me,” Root said. “Just having that extra pressure is just going to help me rise to the occasion.”

Root brings high level experience and has quickly taken on the Razorbacks’ shared goal: win the national championship.

Doing it for ourselves, for the program, for the state, for the fans, I mean, it’d mean everything,” Root said. “Just seeing the guys and the way we work, we deserve to.”

Arkansas begins its season February 14th against Washington State. Watch the full story above!