AUBURN, Ala. — Auburn baseball has made another loud statement in the transfer portal, adding an experienced right-handed pitcher from the Arizona Wildcats, a move that immediately strengthens the Tigers’ bullpen and raises expectations heading into the upcoming season.
The new arrival comes to the Plains with a reputation as a battle-tested reliever who thrived in high-pressure moments out West. Pitching in the Pac-12, the right-hander faced some of the nation’s most dangerous lineups and consistently showed the ability to limit damage, miss bats, and keep his composure when games tightened late.
Statistically, his most recent season jumps off the page. He recorded 43 strikeouts in just 40 innings, showing swing-and-miss stuff that Auburn has prioritized in recent roster construction. Even more impressive was his command: only nine walks all season, a rare combination of power and precision that made him a trusted option out of Arizona’s bullpen. In 12 of his 20 appearances, he did not allow a single run, underscoring his ability to shut the door when momentum was on the line.
Those numbers tell only part of the story. Corey Kling often entered games in critical situations, coming in with runners on base or slim leads to protect. His poise and efficiency helped him post a 2–1 record with a 4.28 ERA, a mark that reflects both the difficulty of competition and his growing role as a dependable late-inning arm.
For Auburn, this addition fits perfectly with the program’s recent blueprint under head coach Butch Thompson. The Tigers have emphasized bullpen depth, strike-throwing, and versatility—traits the Arizona transfer brings in abundance. He becomes another weapon capable of bridging the gap between the starter and the closer, or stepping into higher-leverage roles when matchups demand it.
The move also signals Auburn’s continued aggressiveness in the transfer portal. Rather than simply adding numbers, the Tigers are targeting pitchers with proven production against elite competition. Kling’s experience and statistical profile suggest he won’t need a long adjustment period to make an impact in the SEC.
As excitement builds around Auburn Tigers and Plainsman Park, fans can expect this new bullpen piece to factor into meaningful innings almost immediately. With strikeout ability, calm demeanor, and a track record of run prevention, Auburn may have landed one of the most underrated pitching upgrades of the offseason—one that could play a pivotal role in tight conference battles and postseason aspirations.