BYU Baseball Opens 2025 Season with Challenging Road Trip Against Fresno State and UCLA….

 

BYU baseball kicked off its highly anticipated 2025 season with an eight-game road trip against formidable opponents, Fresno State and UCLA, from February 14 to 18. The Cougars, under the leadership of head coach Trent Pratt, were eager to showcase their offseason improvements and test their mettle against top-tier competition in preparation for a competitive Big 12 schedule.

 

The opening stretch was a crucial test for BYU, offering a blend of early-season challenges, learning opportunities, and glimpses of the team’s potential. Playing on the road against experienced programs like Fresno State and UCLA was no easy task, but it provided the Cougars with valuable insights into their strengths and areas for improvement as they set their sights on making an impact this season.

 

 

—

 

Series vs. Fresno State: Grit and Growth

 

BYU’s season opener on February 14 saw them facing the Fresno State Bulldogs at Pete Beiden Field in Fresno, California. The Bulldogs, known for their strong pitching staff and disciplined approach at the plate, provided an immediate test for the Cougars.

 

In the first game of the series, BYU’s starting pitcher, junior right-hander Jake Porter, took the mound, looking to set the tone for the season. He delivered five solid innings, allowing three runs while striking out six. However, Fresno State capitalized on a couple of defensive miscues and timely hitting to secure a 5-3 victory. BYU’s offense showed promise, with senior outfielder Cole Gambill launching a two-run homer to highlight the scoring.

 

The Cougars bounced back in Game 2 with an impressive offensive explosion. Sophomore shortstop Austin Deming led the charge, going 3-for-5 with four RBIs, including a bases-clearing double in the seventh inning. Freshman pitcher Caleb Lyman made his collegiate debut, tossing four shutout innings in relief to help BYU claim a 7-4 win and even the series.

 

The rubber match on February 16 was a tightly contested battle. BYU’s bats stayed hot, with junior second baseman Luke Anderson delivering a clutch two-run single in the eighth inning to tie the game at 6-6. However, Fresno State responded in the bottom of the ninth with a walk-off sacrifice fly, securing a 7-6 victory and the series win. Despite the loss, BYU showed resilience and depth, setting a positive tone for the road ahead.

 

 

—

 

Showdown Against UCLA: A Test Against Pac-12 Power

 

After wrapping up the series in Fresno, BYU traveled to Los Angeles for a five-game set against perennial powerhouse UCLA at Jackie Robinson Stadium. The Bruins, a consistent force in college baseball with a reputation for producing top MLB talent, presented a formidable challenge for the Cougars.

 

In the opening game on February 16, BYU’s offense struggled against UCLA’s dominant pitching staff. The Cougars managed only four hits as Bruins ace Ryan Garcia struck out ten over six innings. BYU’s pitching staff held its own, with senior left-hander Carter Smith delivering five strong innings, but UCLA secured a 3-1 victory.

 

Game 2 on February 17 was a different story, as BYU’s bats came alive. Senior first baseman Brock Watkins launched a towering three-run home run in the fifth inning, giving the Cougars a 5-2 lead. Starting pitcher Mason Olson delivered a stellar performance, striking out seven over six innings. Despite a late UCLA rally, BYU held on for a 6-5 victory, marking a significant win against a ranked opponent.

 

The third game of the series was a heartbreaker for BYU. The Cougars led 4-3 heading into the ninth inning, but UCLA’s aggressive baserunning and a clutch two-out double sealed a 5-4 walk-off win for the Bruins. It was another tough loss, but the Cougars continued to show their competitive spirit.

 

On February 18, BYU played a doubleheader to close out the road trip. In the first game, UCLA’s offense exploded early, putting up six runs in the first three innings. BYU’s bullpen struggled to contain the Bruins’ relentless attack, resulting in a 9-2 loss. The Cougars regrouped quickly for the nightcap, showing resilience in a 4-3 extra-innings thriller. Freshman reliever Brandon Worthington delivered three scoreless innings, and junior catcher Landon Frei’s RBI single in the 10th gave BYU a hard-fought win to cap the series.

 

 

—

 

Key Takeaways from the Opening Road Trip

 

1. Strong Offensive Potential

 

BYU’s lineup displayed impressive power and situational hitting throughout the road trip. With key contributors like Gambill, Deming, and Watkins stepping up, the Cougars demonstrated they could compete against elite pitching. Their ability to manufacture runs, particularly in tight games, will be a crucial factor as the season progresses.

 

2. Pitching Depth Will Be Key

 

Several young arms made an impact, including Lyman and Worthington, showcasing the depth of BYU’s bullpen. While there were a few late-inning struggles, the pitching staff showed promise. As the team gains experience, expect greater consistency in closing out games.

 

3. Mental Toughness and Resilience

 

Despite the challenges of facing high-caliber opponents on the road, BYU showed resilience in multiple close contests. The ability to bounce back after tough losses and compete at a high level indicates a strong team culture—something Coach Pratt has emphasized.

 

4. Defensive Adjustments Needed

 

While the Cougars made several spectacular plays in the field, defensive miscues played a role in a couple of losses. Cleaning up errors and improving situational awareness will be crucial as they move forward.

 

 

—

 

Looking Ahead

 

BYU returns home to Provo for their first homestand of the season, where they will face in-state rival Utah Valley before diving into Big 12 play. The experience gained from this grueling road trip will undoubtedly help the Cougars as they prepare for conference action.

 

With a balanced lineup, emerging young pitchers, and a resilient mindset, BYU baseball has set the stage for an exciting 2025 campaign. If they continue to grow from their early-season experiences, the Cougars could make waves in the Big 12 and beyond.

 

For Cougar fans, the journey is just

beginning, and there is plenty to look forward to this season.