He’s at it again — Texas baseball’s David Pierce is still working to add critical pieces to his 2018 roster.

Texas’ future pitching rotation was looking thin after eight current pitchers and signees were taken in the MLB draft.

Right-handed pitcher Bryce Elder committed to the ‘Horns on Sunday, alleviating some of the MLB draft’s sting.

I've committed to play baseball at the University of Texas. Hook'em pic.twitter.com/XsqlzXZr9S — Bryce Elder (@bryce_elder13) June 19, 2017

Elder is considered a “late bloomer” due to not being nationally ranked by recruiting services. The Decatur, Texas product also excelled in golf, but decided to focus on baseball after flourishing on the mound towards the end of his high school career.

The incoming college freshman has gained velocity on his fastball in his senior season, as it now touches in the 90s. However, his best pitches may be his cutter and his slider.

Perhaps what caught Pierce’s attention is that Elder had a magnificent high school playoffs. Elder did not allow a hitter in his first two playoff starts — he held Pinkston to five hitless innings and then followed that by allowing no hits to Melissa in six innings. He had a combined 17 strikeouts in those two outings.

At 6-2, 190 pounds, Elder has solid size and an athletic frame.

Elder was originally committed to Howard Junior College.

Look for Elder to be an immediate contributor for the Longhorns in 2018. The Decatur native could be a middle reliever, and even get some week day starts if he continues to rapidly progress.