Zach Pop unlikely to return for Florida series

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Righthanded reliever Zach Pop is unlikely to return this weekend against Florida, a source told Cats Illustrated.

Pop hasn't pitched since April 29 against South Carolina. He threw 2.2 innings in UK's 5-1 loss to the Gamecocks before leaving with a forearm injury. UK head coach Nick Mingione told reporters prior to the Georgia series that Pop was likely to miss at least two weeks and maybe longer.

"Once we see how he responds to all the treatments and things like that we'll have a better feel," Mingione said on May 4. Pop, who is 1-1 on the season with a 3.48 ERA, is one of the Wildcats' best relievers and top draft prospects.

His absence has been minimized by the rise of righthander Chris Machamer. The freshman has a 1.78 ERA and a 1-0 record this season. In conference play, Machamer has allowed four earned runs in 13.2 innings of work. He's struck out 14 batters and opponents are hitting just .136 against him.

The Wildcats, currently a game behind Florida in the SEC, will play the Gators this weekend. UK could win the SEC regular season championship by winning two out of three games against Florida.