The USC Trojans capped a remarkable campaign with a 48‑18 record, the best in recent memory under head coach Andy Stankiewicz. The team rode a wave of consistent performances that carried them to the Chapel Hill Super Regional, where they fell just one run short to the North Carolina Tar Heels.
Returning core players give the squad a solid foundation for the next season. Junior infielder Kevin Takeuchi finished the year batting .320, amassing 77 hits and 65 runs, while sophomore right‑hander Grant Govel posted a 2.87 ERA and struck out 99 batters, finishing 10‑3 on the mound.
Among the prospects the Trojans are eyeing is South Carolina Gamecocks infielder Will Craddock. In his most recent season Craddock posted a .260 average and launched 10 home runs, numbers that have attracted attention from USC’s recruiting staff.
Coach Stankiewicz and his staff believe Craddock’s blend of contact hitting and power could address the team’s need for depth in the infield and add another weapon toward the ultimate goal of reaching the College World Series.
A Look Forward
With a recruiting class already taking shape and key returners poised to improve on their 2026 performances, the Trojans are positioning themselves as contenders in the highly competitive Pac‑12 landscape. The upcoming 2027 season promises a fresh infusion of talent, including the potential addition of Craddock, who could help reshape the lineup.
Fans and alumni alike are eager to see how the program builds on its recent success, and the next few months will be crucial in determining whether the Trojans can translate their strong finish into a championship run.