Darren Williams opens up on what Nick Mingione has meant to him at Kentucky

Kentucky‘s unforeseen 2023 season was one full of down-and-dirty, euphoric baseball that saw every member for the Wildcats roster buy into head coach Nick Mingione’s vision.

RHP Darren Williams is no exception, and after losing to LSU in game two of the Baton Rouge Super Regional, took a moment to reflect on the relationship he built with Mingione over the two seasons he stayed in Lexington.

“It means the world. Me and coach [Mingione], we’ve only known him for two years now. Hell, I’ve played against him. We’ve gotten so tight,” Williams said about his coach after losing the Super Regional. “One of the most influential men in my life, not just a good coach, a hell of a person. One of the best human beings I’ve ever met. And when I tore my elbow last year, he was just as emotional as a family member, man.

“So he means the world to me. I’m sure we’ll stay close forever. And, man, we really wanted to win. He lets us control the locker room, like I said last week. He’s not some crazy psycho coach that you’ve seen videos of before — genuine, honest to you.”

Williams transferred to UK head of the 2022 season from Eastern Kentucky, where he spent five years. Williams (4-2) finished the season posting a 4.04 ERA in 16 apperances (six saves) for the Wildcats. He pitched 62.1 total innings allowing 30 total runs on 55 hits while also striking out 61 batters.

A member of the 2017 recruiting class, Williams no longer hasany remaining collegiate eligibility. Still, he’s made the most of his long career. This time last year, Williams was recovering from Tommy John surgery and for this Kentucky team to make the Super Regionals as a nationally-ranked seed is what Williams calls, “the dream.” He said Mingione should be credited for pushing his team to get them to this point in the NCAA Tournament, regardless of how it finished.

“I’ve enjoyed every minute for it. I’ve loved to play baseball for that man,” Williams said. “I wish I could do it again. I’ve had a hell of a two years with him. I appreciate everything he’s done for me.”

Ultimately, Kentucky ended two games short of the College World Series. But the bonds Williams and the rest of the Wildcats’ roster have built during their magical run will likely stand the test of time.