Transfer Portal Closes, Impact Felt
The NCAA’s transfer portal officially closed in July, marking the end of a window that saw countless player movements across Division I programs.
For West Virginia University, the closure brings a mix of departures and departures that were less disruptive than feared. While the Mountaineers lost top recruit Zahir Barjam to Houston, the bulk of their starting lineup and pitching rotation remains intact.
Roster Moves: Departures and Retentions
Among those who have chosen to stay are Gavin Kelly, a player who was not expected to leave, and a cluster of young talents such as Matthew Robaugh, Colton Sims, Ben Goodacre, JT Huether, Maxwell Molessa, and Weston Smith, who saw limited action last season but are now expected to receive greater opportunities.
Coaches and analysts alike note that the retained players give the program a solid foundation as it looks to build on recent progress, even as other notable names like Ryan Maggy and Wyatt Mosley remain undecided about their next steps.
The roster also includes a host of additional athletes — Zahir Barjam, Ryan Maggy, Luke Lyman, Chase Meyer, Wyatt Mosley, Andrew Middleton, Mac Stiffler, Bryson Thacker, Maxx Yehl, Joshua Surigao, JD Costanzo, Dawson Montesa, JJ Glasscock, Chansen Cole, David Hagen, Bryson Hoff, Bryant Yoak, Hudson Cavallo, Ben Goodacre, JT Huether, David Perez, Brayden Robinson, Weston Smith, Armani Guzman, Tyrus Hall, Matt Ineich, Jackson Ingram, Sean Goldy, Weston Mazey, Matthew Robaugh, Colton Sims, Maxwell Molessa, Gavin Kelly, and Creed Erdos — who together aim to contribute to the team’s depth and competitiveness.
With the portal shut, the Mountaineers’ coaching staff is now focused on developing the returning talent and integrating new additions, aiming to translate preseason expectations into on‑field performance.