The University of Alabama baseball team’s roster is full of talented freshmen. But the play of one first-year player has given the Crimson Tide a boost on offense and defense.

Second baseman Kyle Overstreet has stepped into the starting lineup and provided a spark at the plate. He said all the credit goes to his teammates and the work they have put into this season.

“I’m just trying to do the best I can for the team and put it in play,” Overstreet said. “Good things are happening right now.”

Overstreet, who hails from Boaz, Ala., boasts a .276 batting average and a .359 on-base percentage this season. He has only struck out 11 times.

Alabama head coach Mitch Gaspard said Overstreet’s offensive success has led the Tide to several victories throughout the year, as he has driven in 24 runs this season.

“He really is [playing well],” Gaspard said. “I was looking at his numbers today, and I want to say over his last 15-16 games, he’s hitting about .350 now. But even prior, when he was scuffling a little bit hitting .190, I think he was leading the team in RBIs. When he gets in those RBI spots, he delivers his best at bats in those situations.”

He is especially dangerous in two-out situations. Against Alcorn State Tuesday, Overstreet brought runners home on two separate occasions, leading to a 3-2 win.

But Overstreet’s success in his first year at the Capstone has not been limited to his play on offense. He and shortstop Mikey White have given Alabama a deadly double-play combination on defense.

So far, the talented freshman has turned 34 double plays, with a lot of baseball left on the schedule. He is currently ranked second in the Southeastern Conference in double plays turned. The chemistry between he and White has made turning two look as easy as tying up a pair of cleats.

Overstreet said his serious attitude toward the game has helped him succeed on the diamond.

“I’m just trying to stay with my approach,” Overstreet said. “I’ve been working hard, trying to stay with it. It’s been working so far.”

Overstreet was the No. 7 prospect in Alabama and the top prospect at second base. He was also a 2012 preseason Southeast All-Region first team selection by Perfect Game USA.

His career has only begun, but Overstreet seems to have a bright future ahead of him with the Tide.

“He’s a good offensive player, and now you’re starting to see it night in and night out,” Gaspard said.