HOLLAN to start for Arkansas today vs. Santa Clara.

FAYETTEVILLE — Lefthander Hunter Hollan will start for the University of Arkansas when the Razorbacks open the NCAA Fayetteville Regional against Santa Clara at 2 p.m. today at Baum-Walker Stadium.

It’s a familiar spot for Hollan (8-2, 4.06 ERA), who started weekend openers in the Hogs’ first seven SEC series before moving to the Game 3 starter in the final three series.

Hollan’s starts were pushed back as he recovered from a nerve issue in his plant leg.

“He’s started most of the Game 1s for us all year and we just like where he’s at,” Arkansas Coach Dave Van Horn said. “So we’re going to give him the ball.”

Hollan has 14 starts in 15 appearances. He pitched 5 1/3 innings of relief in Arkansas’ 5-4 win over LSU in the SEC Tournament last Thursday, holding the Tigers to 6 hits, 2 runs and 1 walk with 8 strikeouts.

Van Horn referred to Hollan’s first major college season after his transfer from San Jacinto (Texas) College as very consistent.

“You know what you’re getting,” he said. “He really cares. Great effort. Popular amongst our team. He had a game or two where it didn’t go well and I think it had to do with that leg honestly.

“But just consistent. Confident. Pitches with a little bit of an attitude and fields his position pretty good.

“I just like what he takes out there when he gets the ball. When it doesn’t go good you can live with it as a coach.”

Van Horn said by starting Hollan today, he could also be available to pitch later in the regional.