The West Virginia University baseball program celebrated a watershed moment this season, clinching a spot in the College World Series for the first time in school history.
A Historic Run
At the heart of that breakthrough were standout performers such as Gavin Kelly, who smashed 19 home runs while batting .382, and Armani Guzman, whose leadoff speed translated into a league‑leading 42 stolen bases.
Their return next year adds veteran firepower, and the team will also benefit from the resurgence of pitching aces Chansen Cole and Dawson Montesa, who anchored the rotation with ERA figures that placed them among the nation’s best.
Building on Success
Coach Steve Sabins, now in his third year, is capitalizing on the momentum by intensifying recruiting efforts, using virtual platforms like Zoom to connect with prospects across the country.
The buzz surrounding the program has spilled onto national stages, with features on the Pat McAfee Show and NBC Nightly News highlighting the Mountaineers’ rise.
Attendance records tumbled, with the most packed game in program history drawing a crowd that underscored the community’s enthusiasm.
Among the supporting cast, Matt Ineich, Tyrus Hall, Zahir Barjam, Maxx Yehl, Ian Korn, Reese Bassinger, Ben McDougal, Matthew Graveline, and Sean Smith are expected to contribute depth across the lineup and bullpen.
Sabins believes that the blend of experience and fresh talent positions the Mountaineers to contend for a national championship in the upcoming season.