Where Are the Big West’s 2024 Draftees Now?

Now that the 2025 MLB Draft has come and gone, it’s a perfect time to look back at last year’s Big West draftees and see how they’re faring in pro ball. One year after the draft, these former college standouts are scattered across the minor leagues – some thriving, some facing the challenges of pro competition. Below, I break down the progress of the 2024 draftees from each Big West school, including their minor league assignments and stat lines.

Cal Poly Mustangs

Jakob Wright (LHP, 4th Round, Los Angeles Dodgers): The Dodgers grabbed Cal Poly’s ace 128th overall, impressed by his strike-throwing and polish. Unfortunately, Wright’s pro career has started slowly due to injury. After signing late last summer, he made only a brief Complex League appearance and opened 2025 in Single-A. He was assigned to the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes (Low-A) but landed on the injured list in April 2025 before logging significant innings. As of now, Wright has yet to really debut in full-season ball. The Dodgers remain high on his upside – he showed plus command at Cal Poly – but fans will have to wait a bit longer to see those talents on display in the minors.

Ryan Stafford (C, 5th Round, Baltimore Orioles): One of the Big West’s best all-around catchers, Stafford earned Big West Defensive Player of the Year in 2024 and hit .368 with 46 RBI at Cal Poly. The Orioles picked him 160th overall, envisioning a defense-first backstop with offensive upside. Thus far, Stafford’s pro trajectory has been intriguing. He got off to a strong start in 2024 at Low-A Delmarva, batting .327 with a .444 OBP in 15 games and even stealing 9 bases. The Orioles challenged him with a promotion to High-A Aberdeen by season’s end, and that’s where he opened 2025. There, Stafford has faced tougher pitching – he’s hitting only .177 through roughly 75 games, with 0 home runs and 23 RBI. On the bright side, he continues to flash his athleticism, swiping 19 bases already in 2025, an unusually high total for a catcher. His plate discipline and contact skills will be areas to watch; the jump to High-A is testing his bat, but his strong defense and base-running make him a unique catching prospect in the Orioles system.

Steven Brooks (RHP, 11th Round, Boston Red Sox): A 6’6” right-hander from Cal Poly, Brooks was taken 327th overall by Boston after a solid college career as both a starter and reliever. The Red Sox limited his workload after signing in 2024, and he debuted in 2025 at Low-A Salem. Brooks has been working as a starting pitcher for Salem, where his performance has been up-and-down in the first half. In 14 starts, he’s 2-6 with a 6.08 ERA over 53.1 innings. He’s striking out roughly a batter per inning (51 K) but also carrying a 1.54 WHIP, indicating he’s allowing too many baserunners. Brooks is still adjusting to pro hitters – refining his command and secondary pitches will be key. The Red Sox like his frame and arm strength, so he’ll likely get ample time to develop in A-ball.

Jake Steels (OF, 18th Round, Atlanta Braves): A dynamic center fielder for the Mustangs, Steels fell to the 18th round despite hitting .381with 8 steals as Cal Poly’s leadoff man in 2024. The Braves saw a potential sparkplug and drafted him 551st overall. Steels’ transition to pro ball has been challenging offensively. After a brief 12-game stint in Low-A Augusta in late 2024 where he hit .231, Steels has spent 2025 between Augusta and High-A Rome. Across those stops, he’s appeared in 50 games, batting only .171 with 0 home runs. On the positive side, he’s shown a patient eye and has a few stolen bases, but his contact rate and power are currently underdeveloped. It’s not uncommon for later-round hitters to need time adjusting to pro pitching – Steels is only 22 and known for his work ethic, so the Braves will be patient. Fans at Augusta did get to see his game-changing speed and defense in center, even as his bat searches for consistency.

Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners

Ryan Verdugo (RHP, 12th Round, Houston Astros): Verdugo made history as the first CSUB player ever drafted by the Astros when Houston grabbed him in the 12th round (373rd overall). A 6’2” righty who led the Roadrunners with a 2.72 ERA and 93 strikeouts in 2024, Verdugo unfortunately has not yet logged official innings in minor-league play. He signed in July 2024 but did not pitch in games last summer. He opened 2025 in Astros minor league camp and was assigned to the Low-A Fayetteville Woodpeckers roster to start the year. However, in early April the Astros moved him to the Florida Complex League (rookie level), and reports indicate he’s on the 60-day injured list. It appears Verdugo may be rehabbing from an injury (unconfirmed publicly), which has delayed his pro debut. When healthy, Verdugo features a lively fastball and a sharp slider that helped him dominate Big West hitters. The Astros are likely taking a cautious approach – once he’s recovered, he could move quickly as a college-tested arm.

Cal State Fullerton Titans

Christian “Rod” Rodriguez (RHP, 10th Round, Baltimore Orioles): In 2024, Rodriguez had a tough season (3-8, 5.45 ERA), but still showed flashes of dominance. The Orioles chose him in the 10th round (309th overall). Unfortunately, Rodriguez’s pro career is also off to a slow start due to injury. He pitched in eight games after signing last year, but was placed on the 60-day injured list in 2025. As of mid-2025, he has not yet made an appearance. Orioles fans shouldn’t forget about him, though – at 6’6” with a mid-90s fastball, Rodriguez has the arsenal to thrive if he can get healthy. We’ll likely see his debut pushed to 2026.

Andrew Morones (RHP, 16th Round, Kansas City Royals): A reliable reliever for the Titans, Morones was taken 467th overall by Kansas City. He impressed the Royals enough to jump to their Royals’ High-A Quad Cities squad in 2024, where he started this season, as well. However, his season hit a bump with an injury as well – he was sent on a rehab assignment to the complex league in May 2025. Prior to the injury, Morones’ stats were rough: an ERA above 5 in limited High-A innings, with control being an issue (nearly 5.5 walks per 9). When healthy, Morones is a bullpen arm with a low-90s fastball and slider – he’ll need to cut down the free passes to advance. The good news is he’s back throwing in Arizona; if all goes well, he could rejoin Quad Cities or Low-A Columbia later this year to continue his development.

Evan Yates (RHP, 20th Round, Baltimore Orioles): Yates’ story is a unique one. He missed the entire 2024 college season due to personal reasons, but shined in the MLB Draft League over the summer – that performance got him drafted in the 20th round by Baltimore. The Orioles were aggressive with Yates from the start. He actually made his pro debut at High-A Aberdeen late in 2024, tossing two scoreless innings in his first outing. In 2025, Baltimore opted to have Yates start games in Low-A Delmarva to build up innings. He has taken to the starting role quite well. In his season debut for Delmarva’s home opener, Yates threw 4.0 shutout innings with 8 strikeouts and 0 walks. He features a low-90s fastball with movement and a sharp curve, and importantly, he’s shown the ability to throw strikes consistently after that year off. Given his age, don’t be surprised if the O’s bump him back up to High-A later this year.

Long Beach State Dirtbags

Mike Villani (RHP, 13th Round, Los Angeles Dodgers → Cincinnati Reds): Villani, LBSU’s fireballing closer, was picked in the 13th round by the Dodgers after notching 10 saves and a 3.24 ERA in 2024 at Long Beach. His pro career took an unexpected turn in May 2025, when the Cincinnati Reds acquired Villani from the Dodgers in a high-profile trade that sent MLB closer Alexis Díaz to LA. Why would the Reds target a newly minted minor leaguer like Villani? In two brief Rookie-ball appearances for the Dodgers, Villani was perfect (2 innings, 0 baserunners, 5 strikeouts). That, combined with his college track record, convinced Cincinnati he could be a fast riser in the bullpen. Now in the Reds system, Villani has been assigned to their High-A affiliate (Dayton Dragons) as a reliever. He’s only just begun his Reds tenure, but scouts love his mid-90s sinker and competitive mound presence. Keep an eye on him as a possible fast-track bullpen arm; the Reds clearly believe in his upside.

UC Irvine Anteaters

Caden Kendle (OF, 5th Round, Minnesota Twins): Kendle was a two-time All-Big West First Teamer. After being drafted in the 5th round (159th overall), he played briefly at Low-A Fort Myers in 2024, batting .284 in 22 games. The Twins pushed Kendle to High-A Cedar Rapids in 2025, and he’s been a steady contributor. In 69 games with the Kernels, Kendle is hitting .253 with 6 home runs, 32 RBI, 17 doubles, and 11 stolen bases. Notably, he is showing good plate discipline, and he’s slugging .430 – showing some of the gap power he had in college. Kendle’s well-rounded offensive game (contact, a bit of pop, and speed) has translated nicely so far. He’s also an excellent defensive outfielder, and reports from Cedar Rapids praise his leadership and professionalism. If he continues at this pace, Kendle could see Double-A by early next year.

Woody Hadeen (SS, 6th Round, Detroit Tigers): Hadeen had a breakout 2024 at UCI, hitting .358 and scoring 82 runs as a speedy shortstop. The Tigers selected him in the 6th round (176th overall). Thus far in pro ball, Hadeen’s elite speed and contact skills have been intermittently on display. After debuting in Low-A Lakeland last year, he jumped to High-A West Michigan to begin 2025. It’s been a bit of a struggle at the plate – through roughly 30+ games, Hadeen is batting in the low-.200s (early in the year he was around .121, though he’s improved since). He hasn’t hit any home runs yet and has a handful of RBI. On the plus side, he continues to draw walks (his OBP was near .293 even when his average was .121) and has stolen a few bases. Defensively, Hadeen’s range and glove work have drawn praise, and Detroit is giving him time as an everyday shortstop in High-A. The Tigers are betting that Hadeen’s contact/on-base skills will come around with more reps; when they do, his speed (12 steals in 2024 for UCI) and defense could make him a true top-of-the-lineup sparkplug.

Myles Smith (OF, 7th Round, Cincinnati Reds): Smith was the 2024 Big West Field Player of the Year, after hitting a scorching .401 with a 1.170 OPS at UCI. The Reds nabbed him in Round 7 (209th overall). Smith’s pro career, however, has started on a rough note offensively. He has split this year between Low-A Daytona and High-A Dayton. In total, Myles Smith has around 168 at-bats in pro ball and is hitting just .149 with 2 home runs and 15 RBI. That is a stark contrast to his collegiate domination. Smith will look to regain the confident approach that made him a fearsome hitter in college. Given his talent, a second-half bounce-back is possible once he adjusts to professional breaking balls.

Dub Gleed (3B, 9th Round, Miami Marlins): Gleed battled some injuries at UCI but hit .351 when healthy in 2024, enticing the Marlins to take him in the 9th round (274th overall). Miami started Gleed at Low-A Jupiter in late 2024, and interestingly gave him a one-game taste of Triple-A in May 2025 (likely to cover a roster gap). Primarily, though, he’s been with the Jupiter Hammerheads. Gleed’s batting average won’t wow you – he’s hit around .207 in A-ball – but his on-base skills have been excellent. In fact, Dub Gleed has posted a .356 OBP in Jupiter. Through his first 25 pro games, he had 16 hits and 17 walks, showing a mature approach. Overall, in 2025 Gleed’s slashing roughly .216/.393/.293 with a wOBA around .363, finding ways to contribute despite limited power so far. Gleed will aim to boost his contact moving forward. If he does, his versatility (he’s played 3B, 1B, and some 2B) and on-base ability could move him up the ladder quickly.

Nick Pinto (LHP, 19th Round, Chicago White Sox): A crafty lefty who was an All-Big West second-teamer, Pinto unfortunately has had a nightmare year health-wise. He debuted briefly at Low-A Kannapolis in 2024 but made only one appearance before elbow trouble struck. In May 2025, Pinto exited a game with an apparent arm injury, and shortly thereafter he was moved to the full-season injured list. The update out of Chicago was that he underwent Tommy John surgery, which will wipe out his 2025 season. It’s a tough break – Pinto had shown promise, and the White Sox were intrigued enough to draft him despite a heavy college workload. Before the injury, he had a reputation for pinpoint control and an above-average changeup. Now, Pinto will rehab with hopes of returning healthy in 2026. The bright side: many pitchers come back strong from TJ surgery, and Pinto will only be 24 next year with an opportunity to reset and begin his climb then.

UC San Diego Tritons

Ryan Forcucci (RHP, 3rd Round, Houston Astros): UCSD announced itself in the Big West by producing a 3rd-round pick in 2024 – Ryan Forcucci went #101 overall to Houston. This hard-throwing righty had first-round buzz before an elbow injury ended his college season early. The Astros still invested nearly $1M in him, believing in his upside. As expected, Forcucci has not pitched yet in pro ball while recovering from Tommy John surgery (which he underwent last June). The Astros have placed him on the 60-day IL and he’s been rehabbing all year. Reports say Forcucci’s recovery is going well – he’s on track for fall instructional league or spring 2026. Prior to injury, he showed a high-90s fastball and plus slider that made scouts drool. If he comes back healthy, Forcucci has the talent to rocket through the minors; the Astros are no doubt eagerly awaiting his debut. Patience is key, but keep him on your radar as a potential impact arm down the road.

Matt Halbach (3B/1B, 10th Round, Chicago Cubs): Halbach was a draft wildcard – he hit .408 in just 19 games for UCSD in 2024 (missing time with injury), but the Cubs loved the bat enough to take him in Round 10 (302nd overall). Halbach opened 2025 as the everyday third baseman for the Low-A Myrtle Beach Pelicans (Cubs affiliate). Through 68 games in 2025, Halbach is batting .226 with 6 home runs and 36 RBI. He’s also clubbed 1 doubles and shown flashes of the hitting ability that allowed him to slug .662 in college. At 6’3” and 215 lbs, Halbach has a projectable power bat – the Cubs have even tried him a bit at first base and left field to increase his versatility. One interesting note: Halbach got an opportunity to play in the Australian Baseball League this past winter, further honing his skills. If he can improve his contact rate, the power and run production will only increase. The Cubs system is stacked at the corners, but Halbach is quietly putting himself on the map as a prospect to watch.

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos

Matt Ager (RHP, 6th Round, Pittsburgh Pirates): Ager was a dominant closer in 2024 for UCSB (11 saves, All-Big West Second Team) after a stellar 2023 as a starter. The Pirates took him in the 6th round (174th overall), envisioning a versatile right-hander. In 2025, Ager began back at Bradenton, where his command has been less than stellar. In 54.0 innings, he’s allowed 52 hits, 30 walks, and 8 HBP – but he’s also struck out 34. When on the mound, Ager flashes a four-pitch mix, including a sinking fastball around 92-95 mph. If he gets healthy in the second half, Ager could move to High-A Greensboro and make up for lost time. He’s still a very intriguing arm (some in the org compare him to a young Trevor Williams type).

Ryan Gallagher (RHP, 6th Round, Chicago Cubs): Gallagher, the Big West Pitcher of the Year in 2024 (10-1, 2.22 ERA), has been on the fast track since the Cubs snagged him in Round 6 (182nd overall). Known for his polished changeup and pinpoint control, Gallagher has already risen to Double-A in just one year. He started 2025 in High-A South Bend and pitched well, striking out 85 batters in 72.2 innings and earning a mid-season promotion to the Tennessee Smokies (Double-A). Combined between the two levels, Gallagher’s numbers jump off the page: 4-6 record, 3.43 ERA, 84.0 innings, 96 strikeouts, only 1.07 WHIP in 16 starts. That WHIP and a K-rate above 10 K/9 show he’s missing bats and limiting baserunners with equal skill. The Cubs could be in line for a potential 2026 MLB debut if he continues this trajectory. Gallagher’s success is built on his advanced command – his walk rate is around 7%, very low for a first-year pitcher. It’s not far-fetched to say Gallagher has been the most successful Big West 2024 draftee so far. If you loved him at UCSB, you’ll be delighted to see him carving up minor-league hitters with that deadly changeup and poise on the mound.

Aaron Parker (C, 6th Round, Toronto Blue Jays): Parker was the Big West’s premier catcher in 2024, hitting .379 with 12 homers and showing a strong arm behind the plate. The Blue Jays picked him in the 6th round (187th overall), and he’s already proving to be a draft steal. Parker spent a short time in Low-A last year and moved up to High-A Vancouver for 2025. In 62 games for the Vancouver Canadians, Parker is batting .233 with 8 home runs, 65 RBI, and a .689 OPS. He did spend a brief stint on the injured list to start 2025, but since being activated, he’s been healthy and productive. With his stocky 5’9” frame and quick left-handed bat, Parker has drawn comparisons to former Blue Jays catcher Guillermo Quiroz as a solid all-around backstop.

Ivan Brethowr (OF, 7th Round, Chicago Cubs): Brethowr was a power-packed outfielder for UCSB, and the Cubs grabbed him in Round 7 (212th overall) as part of their Gaucho haul. Listed 6’6” and 250 lbs, Brethowr looks like a slugger and showed flashes with 28 homers over two college seasons. In pro ball, he’s been steadily adjusting. Brethowr spent 2024 in Low-A Myrtle Beach and is in High-A South Bend for 2025. So far in ’25, he’s hitting in the low-.220s with 4 home runs and 26 RBI through 82 games. He’s also stolen 23 bases, but his K-rate is around 26% at High-A. The encouraging sign is Brethowr’s plate discipline: he’s drawing walks at a healthy clip, leading to an OBP in the .390s despite a modest batting average. When he does connect, the ball flies – though officially he has just 4 homers, he’s hit a bunch of doubles and loud outs. Cubs development staff have worked with him to shorten his swing and use the whole field. Given his size and raw strength, patience is key. If the light turns on, Brethowr could start crushing Midwest League pitching. For now, he’s holding his own and contributing RBIs for South Bend, and the Cubs are content to let the 22-year-old refine his approach.

Zander Darby (3B/1B, 12th Round, San Francisco Giants): Darby was a senior sign who went in the 12th round (358th overall) to the Giants, and he’s been one of the surprise success stories among Big West draftees. In his first full pro season with the Low-A San Jose Giants, Darby has been raking. As of mid-2025, he’s slashing .295/.406/.466 with 5 home runs and 50 RBI in 57 games. He’s collected 57 hits in 193 at-bats, showing both contact and some pop, and even added ten stolen bases. That performance is in line with the hot streak he ended his college career on – Darby caught fire in May 2024 for UCSB and has carried it forward. The Giants have primarily played him at third base, though he saw time at first in college. What’s notable is Darby’s advanced plate approach; at 23, he was a bit old for Low-A, so his success needs that context, but he’s doing exactly what you’d hope an older draftee would do – lead the team in RBI and hit near .300. He may be due for a promotion to High-A Eugene in the second half. Giants fans, remember the name – Zander Darby could move quickly if he keeps hitting like this.

Brendan Durfee (C/1B, 14th Round, San Diego Padres): Durfee was a one-year wonder at UCSB after transferring from Division III – he hit 9 homers with a 1.020 OPS as a senior, leading the Gauchos in slugging. The Padres drafted him in the 14th round (420th overall), intrigued by his lefty power and versatility. Durfee had a strong debut at Low-A Lake Elsinore in late 2024, hitting .288 with 2 homers and 18 RBI in 20 games. That earned him a promotion to High-A Fort Wayne to start 2025. In Fort Wayne, Durfee has found it a bit tougher sledding – in 66 games, he’s batting .222 with 2 homers and 21 RBI. He has 12 doubles, so the extra-base hit ability is still there, but his strikeout rate has climbed facing better pitching. He’s splitting time at catcher and first base in High-A. The rigors of catching full-season ball can sometimes affect offensive output, which may be a factor in his modest stats. San Diego is generally aggressive with college hitters, so despite the .222 average, they’ll likely keep Durfee moving forward – especially given his excellent first impression last year. If he can adjust to High-A pitching in the late summer, he might tap back into that power we saw in college (he’s capable of a late-season homer surge). At worst, Durfee projects as a versatile organizational player; at best, maybe he becomes a lefty power bat who can catch – which has definite value.

Cal State Northridge

Kevin Fitzer (16th Round, Colorado Rockies): Kevin Fitzer, a standout at Cal State Northridge, is the Matadors’ 106th draftee in program history. Selected 468th overall by the Colorado Rockies in the 16th round, Fitzer capped a four-year college career batting .328 with 19 home runs, 102 RBI, and a 1.060 OPS in 2024. He earned All‑Big West Honorable Mention, led CSUN in doubles (13) and stolen bases (11), and became the first Matador in 22 years to win back‑to‑back Field Player of the Week honors.

As of mid‑2025, Fitzer is slashing .240/.326/.333 (.659 OPS) over 288 at‑bats in Low‑A with the Fresno Grizzlies, Colorado’s affiliate in the California League. He’s driven in 34 runs, hit 3 homers, and stolen 5 bases—a solid first full pro season. His month-by-month splits show clear improvement: after a slow April (.127 AVG), he turned it around with a .311 average in June and strong performances in May as well. Fitzer has already collected multiple multi-hit and multi‑RBI games (including a first‑career pro walk‑off on June 29 vs. Stockton).

At 6’2″, 200 lbs, Fitzer offers a balanced right‑handed profile—moderate power, gap-to-gap doubles, plus plate discipline (.326 OBP) and occasional speed. He primarily plays first base but has seen time in left field and even at designated hitter. Defensively, scouts note his smooth glove actions and consistent arm accuracy, which align with his experience at multiple positions in college. The Rockies are giving him steady reps every day to let him refine his swing and in-game awareness at full‑season ball.

Conclusion

Many of these players were cornerstone pieces of their college teams and are now translating those skills to the next level. Who will be the first from this group to reach “The Show”? Gallagher might be a good bet for 2026 given his torrid start, but don’t sleep on others like Parker (catchers who can hit move fast) and maybe a healthy Forcucci down the line. And of course, the story is still being written – player development is a marathon, not a sprint.

For college baseball fans, it’s rewarding to track these players you cheered for in Big West action now chasing their big-league dreams. We’ll be rooting for all of them to climb the ladder. One year down, many more to go – and perhaps the next Tanner Bibee or Shane Bieber (both Big West products) is in this 2024 cohort, on the path to MLB stardom.

Ten Players to Watch in the Big West in 2026

Ricky Ojeda, dressed in the USA National team uniform, delivers a pitch.

The Big West Conference is set to showcase a wealth of talent in 2026, including numerous draft-eligible players who could make a significant impact on the field (and even hear their names called in the MLB Draft). Here I spotlight ten players to watch closely as the new season unfolds.

Michael Crossland – OF, UC San Diego

As a sophomore in 2025, Michael Crossland established himself as one of the Big West’s premier power threats. The right-handed hitting center fielder earned First Team All-Big West honors by leading the conference with 15 home runs. He slashed .341/.435/.644 over 50 games, racking up 70 hits, 15 doubles, 44 RBIs, and 49 runs scored. His 1.079 OPS and .644 slugging percentage made him easily one of the top power hitters in the conference.

At 6-foot, 210 pounds, Crossland combines strength with surprising athleticism in the outfield. He consistently drove the ball to all fields last season and showed a knack for coming up with big hits in clutch moments. Not just a slugger, he also demonstrated patience at the plate – drawing 23 walks and even getting plunked 11 times. As the Tritons’ everyday center fielder, he provided reliable defense), showcasing good range and a strong arm. This well-rounded game made Crossland the centerpiece of UCSD’s lineup.

Looking ahead to 2026, Crossland will again be the focal point of the Tritons’ offense and a preseason Big West Player of the Year candidate. If he matches or exceeds last year’s production, he’ll firmly entrench himself in MLB scouts’ radars as a potential early-round pick. Expect more loud numbers from Crossland in 2026. His mix of power, on-base ability, and experience makes him one of the conference’s must-watch players. In a league loaded with talent, Crossland’s big bat and leadership will set the tone for UC San Diego.

Jackson Flora – RHP, UC Santa Barbara

UC Santa Barbara’s Jackson Flora has emerged from the shadow of former ace Tyler Bremner and now profiles as one of the conference’s top arms. The 6-foot-5 right-hander stepped into the Gauchos’ weekend rotation in 2025 and delivered several dominant outings – none more impressive than a complete-game one-hitter with 9 strikeouts against Cal Poly. Flora finished the season 6–3 with a 3.60 ERA, piling up 86 strikeouts against just 17 walks in 75 innings. That performance earned him an invitation to USA Baseball’s Collegiate National Team camp, highlighting his rising stock as a prospect to watch.

Flora has the arsenal of a potential first-round pick. His fastball sits in the mid-to-upper 90s and reportedly touched 99–100 mph with explosive life through the zone, making it extremely hard to square up. He pairs that heat with a sweeping slider that flashes plus and can be adjusted in shape – he’s shown the ability to back-foot it to lefties or tighten it up for righties. A changeup remains a work in progress, but his electric fastball-slider combo and improved command make Flora a formidable Friday-night ace for the Gauchos. Don’t be surprised if pro scouts flock to his starts – he has first-round potential written all over him. In 2026, Flora will be expected to lead UCSB’s staff and could be the next in a line of Gaucho pitchers to make national headlines. The hype is high, and Flora has the talent to back it up.

Elijah Ickes – 3B, Hawai‘i

The 6′0″, 175-lb right-handed hitter Elijah Ickes has been a catalyst for the Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors since he arrived on campus. As a freshman in 2024, Ickes hit .280 and drove in 32 runs, scoring 42 times out of the leadoff spot. He drew 34 walks for a .407 on-base percentage, swiped 7 bases (in 8 attempts), and cracked 12 doubles – showing a promising blend of plate discipline, speed, and gap power. In 2025 he continued to produce, batting .303 with a .387 OBP and 3 triples (a team high) in a season cut short by injury. Ickes started 31 games at shortstop and third base before missing roughly six weeks, yet still tallied 21 RBIs and remained one of the toughest outs on the team. He sprays line drives to all fields and rarely chases out of the zone, reflecting a mature approach beyond his years.

In 2026, Ickes will be counted on as a high-contact, table-setting bat atop Hawai‘i’s lineup – the spark plug who makes the offense go. His return late last season provided a huge boost: in his first game back from the injury, he smacked two doubles and drove in three runs to help Hawai‘i upset Cal State Fullerton. That kind of instant impact underscores how valuable Ickes is to the Rainbow Warriors. Defensively, he offers versatility (splitting time between short and third) and sure hands on the left side of the infield. Look for him to ignite rallies with his line-drive hitting, aggressive baserunning, and knack for extra-base hits. If Ickes can stay healthy for a full campaign, he’s a strong All-Big West candidate and the kind of veteran leader who can help Hawai‘i challenge the conference’s top teams. Don’t overlook his contributions just because he’s not a prolific home run hitter – Ickes does the little things that win games, and he could be one of the league’s most valuable players this season.

Mason Lerma – LHP, UC Davis

One bright spot for UC Davis in 2025 was the emergence of Mason Lerma as a dominant bullpen arm. Lerma, a 5’10” left-hander, put up eye-popping numbers out of the Aggies’ bullpen: a 1.01 ERA and a 3-0 record over 28 appearances. He actually led the entire Big West in pitching appearances, a testament to the trust coaches had in him to handle high-leverage situations. In 35.2 innings, Lerma allowed only 4 earned runs all year. He struck out 35 batters while issuing just 5 walks, showcasing pinpoint control to go along with some deceptive stuff. That stellar performance earned him Second Team All-Big West honors, and firmly established him as one of the conference’s toughest relievers.

Lerma isn’t a flamethrower by any means – his fastball sits in the mid-80s – but his low three-quarters delivery and natural lefty movement keep hitters off balance. He can run the fastball in on right-handers’ hands, saw them off for weak contact, and then mix in a big-breaking curveball to change speeds. Opponents hit just .256 against him, and he often entered with runners on to put out fires (hence the conference-high usage out of the ‘pen). Despite his smaller stature and modest velocity, Lerma competes with confidence and never seems rattled under pressure.

Heading into his junior year in 2026, UC Davis may consider testing Lerma as a starter, but his greatest value might remain in that fireman relief role where he can deploy his two-pitch mix with maximum effectiveness. Either way, his consistency and calm in tight spots will be crucial for the Aggies. He’s the type of veteran arm who can help UC Davis steal some wins in close games. For now, Lerma is undoubtedly one of the Big West’s most reliable relievers, and every opponent will need a solid plan to manufacture runs against him.

Steele Murdock – RHP, UC San Diego

On the pitching side for UC San Diego, Steele Murdock offers a classic case of projection and raw talent. His 2025 numbers as a redshirt freshman (5.60 ERA in 15 appearances) don’t jump off the page, but the 6-foot-2, 215-pound righty turned heads with his electric arm in summer ball. Pitching against elite competition in the Cape Cod League, Murdock routinely sat 94–96 mph with his fastball and even dialed it up to 97, showing big-time velocity. His heater also has natural arm-side run, making it tough for hitters to barrel up even when they make contact.

Murdock pairs that explosive fastball with a sharp slider in the mid-80s that has good tilt. He showed the ability to use the slider as a putaway pitch, often getting swings and misses down and away from righties. At times he can even manipulate the breaking ball to have more downward, curveball-like action, keeping hitters guessing and off-balance. While his command and consistency are still developing (not uncommon for a young power arm), the upside here is undeniable. Murdock has clear shutdown closer potential, given his arsenal and aggressive approach on the mound. In 2025, he notched one save and often worked in a swingman role, but in 2026 the Tritons could deploy him in a variety of ways. He might emerge as a high-leverage closer who can blow away hitters for an inning or two, or he could even compete for a weekend starter spot now that he’s more seasoned. If he harnesses his control, Murdock has the tools to blossom into one of the Big West’s most dominant pitchers. Keep an eye on his strikeout rates and those late-inning appearances – the fireballing righty could end up being a real game-changer for UCSD this year, and you can bet pro scouts will be watching his radar gun readings with interest.

Ricky Ojeda – LHP, UC Irvine

This undersized lefty quietly emerged as one of the conference’s best pitchers over the past two seasons. Ricky Ojeda (5′11″, 185 lbs) was a strikeout machine in 2024 as a freshman reliever, piling up 74 Ks in 52 innings with a 3.46 ERA and earning first-team All-Big West honors. In 2025, he maintained that success: he went 13–1 with a 3.55 ERA, logging 66.0 innings and recording 83 strikeouts to only 29 walks. He made 29 appearances (including a couple of spot starts) and even added a few saves to his resume. Simply put, Ojeda has been one of the Anteaters’ most dependable arms, whether coming out of the bullpen or taking the ball to start a game.

Ojeda’s stuff belies his smaller frame. His fastball sits in the low 90s and has reportedly topped out around 95–96 mph, which from the left side is plenty dangerous. He complements it with an upper-60s curveball that he isn’t afraid to throw in any count – it’s a true swing-and-miss pitch when he’s hitting his spots. Ojeda lives on the edges of the plate and isn’t prone to free passes (he averaged just about 2.2 walks per nine innings in 2025), showing above-average control to go with his strikeout ability. In short, this southpaw’s combination of command and stuff has produced big strikeout totals in back-to-back years. Heading into 2026, he’s a top-of-the-league talent on the mound and gives UC Irvine a versatile weapon. The Anteaters may slot him into the weekend rotation, where his experience closing games could translate into a bulldog mentality as a starter. If not, he’s proven he can dominate in relief. Either way, expect Ojeda to continue racking up Ks and frustrating hitters all spring. He may not have the prototype size, but he’s got everything else you’d want in an ace, and that makes him one of the Big West’s most intriguing pitchers to watch (not to mention a possible draft sleeper if his dominance continues).

Matthew Peña – 1B/DH, CSUN

A thick-framed lefty slugger at 6′0″, 220 lbs, Matthew Peña was a late-blooming power bat for the CSUN Matadors who could be primed for an even bigger 2026. As a sophomore in 2025, Peña started 35 games at first base and showed flashes of his prodigious raw power. He slugged 7 home runs (second-most on the team) and drove in 30 runs, leading the Matadors in RBIs during the regular season. Those long balls and 6 doubles came despite a modest .244 batting average – an improvement from his limited action in 2024, but leaving room for growth. Peña’s approach is still developing (he had a fairly high strikeout rate last year), but when he connects, the ball can travel a long way. He delivered seven multi-RBI games in 2025, highlighting his ability to change a game with one swing and come through with runners on base.

Going into 2026, CSUN will be counting on Peña to be a middle-of-the-order run producer and source of much-needed pop. He’s shown he can provide instant offense and drive the ball with authority to his pull side and center. The next step will be improving his consistency at the plate – if he can raise his average and cut down on the strikeouts a bit, Peña has the natural strength to threaten double-digit homers and become one of the Big West’s better power hitters. He’ll likely get plenty of chances as an everyday first baseman or DH, so the opportunity is there for a breakout junior campaign. Opposing pitchers will be careful when facing Peña with men on base, because he has the kind of bat that can put up a crooked number in a hurry. Matador fans will be hoping that his 2025 power surge was just the beginning, and that Peña can evolve into the go-to RBI man in Northridge’s lineup.

Tsubasa Tomii – RHP, Hawai‘i

An exciting new face in the Big West, Tsubasa Tomii brings a truly unique pedigree and pitching style to Hawai‘i. Tomii, a 5-foot-7 right-hander from Japan, first made headlines as a 12-year-old when he was the winning pitcher in the 2017 Little League World Series championship game. After that early fame, he continued to hone his craft in Japan – even appearing at Koshien, the nation’s famed high school tournament – before coming to the U.S. for college. He dominated at the junior college level over the past two seasons, and now he’ll join the Rainbow Warriors for 2026 as a junior. In 2025 at Pima Community College, Tomii went 5–1 with a minuscule 1.48 ERA (including a 0.95 ERA in conference play), averaging over 12 strikeouts per nine innings. His road to Division I is unconventional, but he’s proven at every step that he knows how to compete and win.

Despite standing under 5’8”, Tomii is a savvy pitcher with an arsenal of six different pitches. He features a four-seam fastball that tops out around 90–91 mph, plus a cutter, slider, curveball, changeup, and splitter. In summer ball on Cape Cod in 2025, Tomii turned heads with his crafty approach against elite hitters. He effectively pitched backwards, often starting hitters off with breaking balls and off-speed stuff. His sharp slider in the upper-70s (reportedly spinning in the 3000 RPM range) was a go-to weapon, and he could drop in a big-breaking curveball to steal strikes. Meanwhile, his fastball sat in the mid-80s during the summer but played up thanks to deception and command – hitters often found themselves late on an 85 mph heater because they were gearing up for something slower. Tomii even incorporates an extended pause in his delivery (reminiscent of Daisuke Matsuzaka’s famed hesitation move), which further disrupts hitters’ timing and adds to his funk on the mound.

All signs point to Tomii slotting into Hawai‘i’s rotation immediately in 2026. Between his international experience, deep pitch mix, and feel for sequencing, he could quickly become a fan favorite in Honolulu – not to mention an All-Big West caliber starter. He’s not the type of pitcher who will light up the radar gun, but Tomii knows how to get outs against high-level competition, and he brings an intensity and savvy that’s infectious to his team. He’ll be a fascinating player to watch this season, as fans will get to see a very different style of pitching than the flame-throwers who typically grab headlines. If he lives up to the hype and adapts quickly to Division I hitters, Tsubasa Tomii could end up as one of the best stories in the Big West in 2026.

Cole Tryba – LHP, UC Santa Barbara

If Jackson Flora is the headliner of UCSB’s pitching staff, fellow Gaucho Cole Tryba might be the unsung hero who holds it all together. Tryba was lights-out in relief last season, emerging as one of the most effective bullpen arms in the conference. The 6’0”, 185-pound left-hander posted a 3.48 ERA and struck out 46 batters to only 12 walks over 31 innings. He even notched six saves as the closer down the stretch. Tryba isn’t physically imposing, but he brings an explosive, high-effort delivery and big-time stuff that plays up in short stints. His fastball operates in the low 90s with plenty of arm-side run, and he isn’t afraid to challenge hitters inside. But his best weapon is a sweeping slider in the upper-70s to low-80s that has plus bite and depth – hitters had a hard time squaring it up when he was on his game. He also mixes in a changeup that can tumble away from righties, giving him a viable third pitch even though he primarily worked out of the bullpen.

UC Santa Barbara relied on Tryba in numerous high-leverage situations, and he delivered time after time. With a reputation as a strike-thrower and the ability to miss bats, he provided a crucial bridge to the later innings alongside Flora’s dominance in the rotation. For 2026, Tryba could take on an even larger role – perhaps continuing as a bullpen ace or even getting a look in the rotation if needed. He was arguably the most underrated arm on a loaded UCSB staff last year, but expect him to get more recognition this spring as people realize his value. His combination of experience, swing-and-miss stuff, and poise under pressure makes Tryba a name to know. Plus, as a lefty who can touch the low 90s and spin a nasty slider, he’s on pro scouts’ radar as well. Don’t be surprised if he’s racking up saves again or stepping into any role the Gauchos need. Tryba is the kind of versatile, high-quality arm that championship-caliber teams lean on.

Andrew Wright – LHP, Cal State Fullerton

Cal State Fullerton’s rich pitching tradition has another rising star in Andrew Wright. The 6′1″ sophomore took on closing duties in 2025 and thrived, and now he’ll be a junior poised for even bigger things. Wright recorded 10 saves (the most for a Titans pitcher since 2018) while striking out 49 batters in 41.1 innings and posting a 2.40 ERA. He became Fullerton’s go-to arm in late-game situations, converting 13 of 15 save opportunities, and along the way he earned a Big West Pitcher of the Week honor and First Team All-Big West recognition. In short, Wright proved he could handle pressure and anchor the bullpen for a team with championship aspirations.

Wright attacks hitters with a lethal fastball-curveball combination. His fastball sits in the mid-90s from the left side, which alone makes him a tough matchup for opponents, and he complements it with a tight, biting curve that he uses as an out-pitch. That one-two punch helped him dominate both righties and lefties last year – he was equally confident throwing inside to right-handed bats or snapping off a curve to lefties for a swinging strike. What sets Wright apart, too, is his composure and command; he pounds the strike zone (just 2.6 BB/9 in 2025) and doesn’t shy away from attacking hitters even in high-pressure spots. The Titans trusted him with the ball in one-run games, and he rewarded that trust time and again.

Looking to 2026, Fullerton has the luxury of deciding how to deploy Wright’s talents. Will he remain the shut-down closer at the back end of the bullpen, or transition into a weekend starter role? His repertoire and poise suggest he could excel in either capacity. As a closer, he’s a proven finisher who gives the Titans a huge advantage in any game they’re leading after the 7th inning. As a starter, his stuff and control could translate into ace-like performance over longer outings. Either way, Wright will be a linchpin for Fullerton’s pitching staff. With the Titans eyeing a return to regional and Omaha contention, having a lefty of Wright’s caliber is a big asset. He’s also now on the radar of MLB scouts – mid-90s velocity from the left side with a hammer curve is the kind of profile that garners serious pro interest. Expect Wright to continue building on his breakout season; whether it’s closing the door on Fridays and Saturdays or setting the tone as a starter, he’s one of the Big West’s elite arms and absolutely a player to watch in 2026.