JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Queens University of Charlotte left-handed pitcher Joey Ruller has been named the Atlantic Sun Conference Pitcher of the Week, as officially announced by the league on Monday afternoon. The weekly honor is Ruller's second nod this season as he is putting together a career-best 2026 campaign.
 
"Saturday was another tremendous performance from Joey," said Queens head coach Jake Hendrick. "These are the types of performances we are beginning to expect out of Joey. Like Landry [Jurecka] last season, when Joey has the ball in his hand, we have a really good shot to win."
 
On Saturday, the Charlotte native shut down a Jacksonville offense that plated 17 runs on Friday night. Ruller tossed 7.1 innings, allowing one run on four hits while striking out a career-high nine Dolphins. The southpaw picked up his first win of the season with the spectacular performance, which helped the Royals even the weekend series.
 
"I'm proud of Joey. The award recognizes the performance, but the true work that is being put in behind the scenes when no one is watching."
 
Ruller is putting together the best season of his career through six starts this season. The two-time ASUN Pitcher of the Week posts a team-best 4.58 ERA and 30 strikeouts across 37.1 innings of work. Ruller has completed 7.0 innings of work in four of his six starts this season, including back-to-back outings. Across the ASUN, Ruller ranks second in innings pitched, fifth in strikeouts, and 11^th in ERA.
 
Queens returns to action on Tuesday, March 24^th as the Royals make the short trip across town to Charlotte. The first pitch is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. and the game will be broadcast on ESPN+.
 
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