CWS 2024: Elkhorn South product Eli Small back in Omaha like he never left with Kentucky

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - Only a year after suiting up for his senior season with the Storm, Elkhorn South product Eli Small is back in Omaha, this time as a freshman with No. 2 Kentucky on the Wildcats’ first squad to ever make it to the College World Series.

“As a little kid you dream of playing in the CWS someday and I just can’t believe I’m finally here,” said Small after finishing practice at Charles Schwab Field. “It’s a whole full circle moment. I remember coming to these fan days trying to get every conference ball I could and now I’m on the other end signing those autographs.”

“If the people of Omaha are looking for a team to root for, this is your team,” said Kentucky head baseball coach Nick Mingione. “We have Eli Small, who is from Elkhorn. He’s a Nebraska guy who just loves this place. We talk about bringing him home all year.”

Small committed to Kentucky over four years ago, making the announcement on X (formerly known as Twitter) on January 24, 2020. The Elkhorn native doesn’t regret the decision one bit.

“People are kinda like ‘Oh really, Kentucky? What have they done?’ And then [I] come here as a freshman and I can only say we’re here now and couldn’t have made a better decision,” said Small.

Small became very popular after the Wildcats knocked off Oregon State in the Lexington Super Regional and punched their tickets to Omaha.

“I ran out of tickets in thirty seconds. I’ve had hundreds of texts,” said Small. “People reaching out for stuff, but family and friends, I’ve got you.”

Despite playing most of the season as a backup catcher, Small has made appearances in 11 games, recording three hits, three RBI, and a home run.

“If I get an at-bat, on the on-deck circle I will be shivering. I will be definitely freaking out a little bit, but if the chance arises-- and I think and hope it will-- I’m just going to make the most out of it. Do what I can to support the team. Try to have a great at-bat,” said Small.

Kentucky will play Florida in an elimination game Tuesday at 6:00pm. The winner of that contest will play Texas A&M in the Bracket 2 finals.

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