New Faces Set to Strengthen the Bears
Baylor University's baseball program unveiled a seven‑player addition for the 2027 season, a group that blends proven collegiate experience with fresh talent from the transfer portal and junior college ranks.
The incoming class comprises three right‑handed pitchers, three left‑handed pitchers and a versatile utility player, each selected to reinforce the Bears' depth and flexibility at the Division I level.
Among the newcomers, Tate DeRias arrives from Miami, bringing a reputation earned as a 2026 Cape Cod League All‑Star and a background of back‑to‑back state titles at Gloucester Catholic High School.
Keller Eberly, a fifth‑year senior transfer from Texas State, showcases a strong track record with a 1.35 earned run average in the Coastal Plain League, complementing his collegiate performances.
Beau Elson, who transferred from Fordham, led his team in wins during the 2026 season and earned a spot on the Atlantic 10 Commissioner’s Honor Roll, underscoring both athletic and academic achievement.
Brayden Gilley, a senior from Winthrop, garnered Big South Starting Pitcher of the Week honors and secured a First‑Team All‑Big South selection, highlighting his impact on the mound.
Kurt Ippolito, a junior from Central Christian College of Kansas, posted a .376 batting average with 24 home runs and 94 RBIs over two seasons, adding power hitting to the roster.
Xavier Pelzer, a fourth‑year pitcher from Miami Dade College, was named Most Valuable Pitcher of the FCHAA Tournament and played a pivotal role in guiding his team to the JUCO World Series.
Davis Webb, a senior transfer from Bradley University, paced the Braves with the highest strikeout total in 2026 and contributed to an ICCAC regular‑season title.
The coaching staff identified these players through an intensive summer scouting process, emphasizing high‑caliber arms and a position player capable of making a decisive impact.
With four of the pitchers already holding Division I starting experience and one serving as the ace of his Junior College World Series team, the new roster is positioned to compete for significant roles from the outset.
Beyond raw talent, the program stresses cultural fit, aiming to integrate the newcomers seamlessly into the existing clubhouse dynamic and maintain the Bears' competitive spirit.