The Arkansas Razorbacks have landed a notable addition to their infield with the commitment of transfer infielder TJ Pompey, who departed Texas Tech. The 6-foot-4, 200-pound sophomore from Coppell, Texas, announced his decision via Instagram Thursday, marking a significant boost to head coach Dave Van Horn’s rebuilding effort following another late postseason run .
Pompey arrives with an impressive résumé. As a freshman in 2024, he earned Freshman All‑American honors from both Perfect Game and the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association, delivering a .279 batting average with 10 homers, 11 doubles and 49 RBI over 55 games . His sophomore season in 2025, though curtailed by a March 30 wrist injury, still showcased his raw offensive talent: in just 19 games (18 starts), he slashed .348/.397/.623, with five home runs, four doubles and 15 RBI across 69 at-bats . That production kept him on the radar of top SEC programs even as he recovered from injury .
Pompey is a versatile defender, having logged time at shortstop, third base and even secondary innings in the summer outfield. Over his two seasons at Texas Tech, he posted a career slash line of .297/.391/.544 with 15 homers across 74 games . Despite a .848 fielding percentage and seven errors in 46 chances during his sophomore year, his athleticism and arm strength have drawn praise, with one Big 12 coach noting his “frame and tools to be a difference-maker with some polish” .
Importantly, Pompey has already faced SEC competition—and Arkansas specifically. In a two-game midweek series at Baum-Walker Stadium in 2024, the then‑freshman went 2-for-5, drawing two walks, scoring a run and stealing a base . That experience gives the Razorbacks added confidence in his ability to transition seamlessly to SEC play.
His arrival is part of a broader flurry of transfer activity for the Razorbacks. Pompey becomes the sixth portal addition this cycle, joining the likes of Jackson Wells (Little Rock), Jackson Kircher (Oklahoma), Ethan McElvain (Vanderbilt), Dylan Grego (Ball State) and Zack Stewart (Missouri State) .
Coach Van Horn, entering his 23rd year, has leaned heavily on transfers to offset MLB draft departures and early exits. “To compete in the SEC, you need guys who aren’t afraid of the moment. TJ has shown he can hit at this level,” the coach remarked . Pompey echoed that sentiment: “I’m excited to join Arkansas and compete for championships. The tradition here is incredible…” .
In short, TJ Pompey brings power, versatility, and SEC-tested experience to a Razorbacks squad aiming to contend for a national title next spring.
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