The Razorbacks Just Pulled Off a Sneaky Infield Steal — Texas Tech Standout TJ Pompey Is Headed to Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR — Just when college baseball fans thought the transfer portal had quieted down, the Arkansas Razorbacks made a bold, under-the-radar move that could pay major dividends next season.
Texas Tech sophomore infielder TJ Pompey has officially committed to Arkansas, bringing his impressive bat, defensive versatility, and untapped potential to Fayetteville in what many are calling a significant late addition for the Hogs.
The news comes after a shortened 2024 season for Pompey, where he was putting together an eye-opening campaign before injury struck.
A Promising Bat with Untapped Upside
Before his season was cut short, Pompey was slashing .348 at the plate, with 15 RBI and 5 home runs in just 18 starts — numbers that had Texas Tech fans buzzing about his development and scouts paying attention.
Standing out for both his offensive production and ability to play multiple infield positions, Pompey saw time at third base and shortstop during his two seasons with the Red Raiders, showcasing the type of versatility that Arkansas head coach Dave Van Horn values in his lineup.
Despite his injury setback, Pompey’s performance left little doubt about his potential, and his commitment to Arkansas suggests he’s ready to take the next step on a bigger stage.
What Pompey Brings to the Razorbacks
For Arkansas, a perennial SEC contender with Omaha aspirations, Pompey fills an immediate need — a reliable, experienced bat and defensive depth in the infield.
✅ Offensive Consistency: His .348 batting average reflects strong plate discipline and the ability to produce runs.
✅ Power Potential: With 5 home runs in limited starts, Pompey showed flashes of the power Arkansas fans crave.
✅ Defensive Flexibility: His experience at both 3B and SS makes him a valuable chess piece for Van Horn’s infield rotation.
✅ Competitive Edge: Coming from a program like Texas Tech, Pompey arrives battle-tested and ready for high-pressure SEC baseball.
A Quiet Steal with Big Implications
The transfer caught many off guard, especially given Pompey’s injury, but insiders suggest that Arkansas’ coaching staff has been monitoring his recovery and believes he’s poised for a major impact once fully healthy.
For a Razorbacks program that prides itself on developing players and competing at the highest level, Pompey represents a calculated, high-upside addition with the potential to be an immediate contributor.
What’s Next for Pompey and the Hogs?
All eyes will be on Pompey’s recovery and integration into the Razorbacks’ system. If he returns to full strength, Arkansas may have quietly added one of the more impactful transfer portal pieces of the offseason.
And for Pompey, the move to Fayetteville offers a fresh start, a new challenge, and the chance to prove he belongs among the SEC’s elite.
