For the first time since 2022, the Texas Longhorns are heading back to the College World Series (CWS). This is a big deal for the program—especially after a wild win over Oregon in the Super Regionals, one of the most-watched games in the whole series.
Texas coach Jim Schlossnagle said the journey back to Omaha really started after last season ended. Keeping key pitchers on board through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals made a huge difference for the team’s core.
The Role of NIL in Retaining Key Players
After last season, Texas had to figure out how to keep some of their best pitchers from leaving. NIL deals made all the difference here.
By offering solid financial incentives, Texas convinced three older pitchers—Ruger Riojas, Luke Harrison, and Max Grubbs—to stick around. They could’ve gone for late-round draft picks but decided to finish their degrees and keep playing for Texas.
Building a Core Group
With Riojas, Harrison, and Grubbs back, the Longhorns had a solid pitching core to build around. Freshman Dylan Volantis also returned, adding even more talent and depth to the rotation.
Schlossnagle said these choices were massive in fueling the team’s run to Omaha. You have to wonder if it would’ve happened without them.
Key Points:
- Ruger Riojas: 5-2 record, 4.04 ERA, 113 strikeouts
- Luke Harrison: 6-3 record, 4.29 ERA, 89 strikeouts
- Dylan Volantis: 10-1 record, 2.03 ERA, 15 starts
Performance on the Field
Bringing these guys back really paid off for Texas. Dylan Volantis turned into the team’s ace, finishing with a 10-1 record and a 2.03 ERA over 16 appearances—15 of those as a starter.
Ruger Riojas made a big impact too, notching a 5-2 record and a 4.04 ERA, plus 113 strikeouts. Only Volantis bested him there. Luke Harrison put together a strong season as well, going 6-3 with a 4.29 ERA and 89 strikeouts.
Impact of Experience
The experience and steady performances from these pitchers made all the difference in Texas’s Super Regional win. Schlossnagle emphasized how important it was to keep this core together.
Staying healthy was the real key. “It felt like we had a chance to pitch if we could just keep those guys healthy and survive the SEC regular season and postseason with our pitching,” Schlossnagle said.
“We just needed to keep those guys tuned up and get through the SEC Tournament, get rested and have a chance to make a run in Omaha. So far, that’s what’s happened.”
Looking Ahead to the College World Series
Now, as Texas heads to the College World Series, the focus is on keeping their pitching strong and their key arms healthy. The Longhorns have the talent and experience to compete at this level—no question about it.
With their core group leading the charge, Texas could be in for a deep run in Omaha. Wouldn’t bet against them, honestly.
Challenges and Opportunities
Sure, the Longhorns have a strong foundation. But let’s be honest, the College World Series isn’t exactly a cakewalk.
They’ll have to keep their pitching sharp, and hope everyone stays healthy. That’s easier said than done with the pressure ramping up.
Their core group of pitchers? That experience and talent could make all the difference when things get dicey.
For more on how NIL deals helped Texas hold onto key players and put together a winning squad, check out the full article on Yahoo Sports.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews
