Gamecocks add local talent to 2020 class

The Gamecocks picked up a commitment from a local pitcher and infielder Sunday night when Cade Austin announced via Twitter he was pledged to South Carolina.

Austin competed this weekend in the Palmetto Games hosted at Founders Park and the Gamecock coaching staff was impressed with the velocity on his pitches and how comfortable he looked on the mound.

"I caught the eye of one of the coaches and after the game they stopped me and asked me to tour the field," he said in a direct message.

Also see: Team scoop from preseason camp, plus more insider notes on Jaycee Horn

Austin, who plays for Chapin High School (S.C.), is just the third member of the Gamecocks' 2020 class. He joins right-hander and infielder Landon Lucas and middle infielder Jalen Vasquez.

His dad played football at South Carolina, and Austin called it his "dream school" for as long as he can remember.

I was shocked," he said about receiving interest from the Gamecocks. "It was like a dream come true for me."

Also see: Notes from Saturday's football scrimmage

He still has three years left in high school, but is excited for the chance to play soon at South Carolina in the future.

"I'm mostly excited because South Carolina is usually one of the best teams in the nation and hopefully I'll get to compete for a national title," he said.