The 2026 season ended in heartbreak for the USC Trojans baseball team, which saw its campaign cut short in the Super Regionals after a single inning separated them from the College World Series. The near‑miss left the program reflecting on a promising run that fell just one out short of the national stage.
A Wave of Transfers
Twelve Trojans have entered the transfer portal, a move that signals both the end of an era and the beginning of a rebuilding phase. Among those departing are sophomore designated hitter and catcher Augie Lopez and ace pitcher Mason Edwards, both of whom played pivotal roles in the team’s success.
Edwards, a two‑time All‑American, finished the season with a 2.07 ERA and was named Baseball America’s Pitcher of the Year. His departure, along with that of fellow All‑American Grant Govel, who is projected for middle‑round MLB Draft selection, leaves a sizable gap in the rotation.
In response, USC has secured two fresh arms: Tyler Gebb, a right‑hander from Long Beach State, and Oliver Boone, a left‑hander from the University of Kentucky. Both pitchers bring strong collegiate credentials and are expected to anchor the staff next season.
Adding to the coaching staff, Keith Zuniga, the new pitching coach, arrives from the University of Hawai‘i, where he helped guide the team to a top‑ranked ERA. His experience is viewed as a key component in developing the next generation of Trojan pitchers.
With the transfer portal set to close on June 30, the Trojans are finalizing roster moves as they aim to return to the College World Series in 2027. The blend of incoming talent and retained experience offers a hopeful outlook for USC baseball.