Three Hoosier players head for the portal
The NCAA transfer portal saw a flurry of activity this week as three Indiana University baseball standouts — Jake Hanley, Cooper Malamazian and Brodey Bitove — officially submitted their paperwork to explore new destinations. Each still retains two years of eligibility, a factor that has drawn attention from programs across the country.
Hanley arrived on campus as a highly touted freshman and quickly cemented his place in the lineup. He earned the 2025 Freshman of the Year honor and followed it with a 2026 season that saw him bat .338 with 14 home runs. His durability was also notable; he started every game in both seasons, a feat not achieved by an Indiana player since 2005.
Malamazian’s professional promise
Malamazian’s journey took a different turn when the Milwaukee Brewers selected him in the 17th round of the 2024 MLB Draft. Rather than sign, he opted to remain in Bloomington for two seasons, where he posted a .301 average, an .833 OPS and four home runs in the most recent campaign. His dual commitment to college and professional development illustrates the evolving calculus for elite collegiate athletes.
Bitove transferred from Pepperdine University to Indiana last year, bringing with him a Pacific Coast background but limited on‑field exposure. In his sole season with the Hoosiers he recorded just two at‑bats, striking out both times, a modest sample that nonetheless reflects the competitive nature of roster spots.
What the departures mean for the program
The portal window will close on June 30, after which teams must finalize their rosters. For Indiana, the departures mark the beginning of a reshaping process as the coaching staff looks to fill the gaps left by departing talent while courting newcomers who can contribute immediately.