Welcome to the offseason Texas fans aka misery land.
While the Horns turn their attention to the transfer portal and an impending coaching search, there is a lot of moving parts out there, so lets use this thread to keep things update.
NEW UPDATES WILL BE AT THE TOP GOING FORWARD:
UPDATE (7/15)
In case you missed it last night, here were the results for Texas.
#11 - Byrce Rainer (Texas signee) - Detroit
#18 - Theo Gillen (Texas signee) - Tampa Bay
#37 - Levi Sterling (Texas signee) - Pittsburgh
#42 - Jared Thomas - Colorado
UPDATE (7/15)
As expected, LHP David Ramirez, who recently visited Texas and then announced he had decomitted, has committed to Texas A&M.
UPDATE( 7/14)
Texas signee Bryce Rainer has been selected 11th overall by Detroit
Texas signee Theo Gillen has been selected 18th overall by Tampa Bay
UPDATE (7/14)
After Texas released him from his LOI, RHP Gavin Lyons visited Texas A&M and has committed to the Aggies.
UPDATE (7/12)
Another one! Texas Baseball lands a commitment from 2024 RHP Drew Rerick. The 2023-2024 North Dakota baseball player of the year (yes, you read that correctly) had been committed to Texas A&M, but has flipped his commitment to the Longhorns.
Currently ranked #140 by MLB Prospect list, the imposing 6’5” Rerick has a fastball that has been up to 98, though normally sitting 92-95. Rerick also has a mid-80s slider and a low 80s curve.
A draft risk, Rerick could be the highest drafted player out of the state of North Dakota. If the Horns can get him on campus though, he would be another big arm that Coach Max Weiner will certainly look forward to molding.
UPDATE (7/11)
Horns land another talented arm out of the transfer portal as UTSA product Ruger Riojas has committed to Texas.
10-3
7 saves
3.25 ERA
26 appearances
69.1 IP
18 BB
75 K
UPDATE (7/11)
Horns land the top in state prospect that has been committed to Texas Tech, in SA Johnson product Kayson Cunningham.
MASSIVE pick up for the Horns that adds to a 2025 class that is going to be super special.
2025 SCHEDULE UPDATE (7/11)
Get your plane tickets ready...the Horns are headed to Vegas to take part in the Las Vegas Baseball Classic.
UPDATE (7/9)
Texas dips into the transfer portal again and lands a commitment from RHP Derek Vartanian, formerly of Campbell.
While the numbers will certainly not blow you away, Derek missed the majority of last season due to injury, so wouldn’t read too much into them.
He was a guy that showed some promise last Fall as he came out firing 97.
2024: Made three starts before being sidelined with injury ... Recorded 15 strikeouts in 11.0 innings, including an 11 strikeout, 6.0 IP shutout performance against Ohio (2/23).
3 appearances, 3 starts, 1-2, 7.36 ERA, 11 IP
UPDATE (7/9)
RHP Matthew Millett has been released from his NLI and will seek an opportunity to play elsewhere.
Unfortunately, Millett has had some ongoing injury issues recently, so the staff has decided to go in another direction.
UPDATE (7/9)
The Horns dip into the JUCO ranks again and land a commitment from LHP Ethan Walker of Walters State CC.
Gotta love a weird arm slot guy for the bullpen
UPDATE (7/9)
In case you missed it yesterday, here is the link to the video I recorded with Dustin McComas talking about the Longhorns and the upcoming MLB Draft. - MLB Draft Preview
UPDATE (7/9)
The RHP pitcher from Hawaii has been released from his NLI and has reopened his recruitment.
One time, folks thought he might be a draft risk, but the progression hasn’t quite been there.
There is at least one more that I am expecting to be released as well.
UPDATE (7/8):
I have confirmed that RHP Jackson Jordan has been released from his NLI as the staff
UPDATE (7/8)
Horns land a commitment from LHP Kade Bing of McLennan Baseball.
Can't say I know a ton about him, but according to Dustin McComas, he is a kid that can really pitch well.
This past season at McLennan, Bing made 16 appearances, started 11 games and ended the season with a 9-2 record. He pitched 70.1 innings and sported a 3.33 ERA.
UPDATE (7/8)
LHP Tyler Walton of San Antonio Johnson has requested a release from his NLI and reopened his recruitment. Walton is a class of 2024 pitcher.
UPDATE (7/7)
The Texas staff has flipped another Texas A&M signee as 2024 Flower Mound Adrian Rodriguez has committed to Texas.
Rodriguez was a leading hitter in 6A and was named Dallas Morning News Offensive Player of the Year for 2024.
UPDATE (7/7):
Quotes and Comments from recent transfer 2B Ethan Mendoza.
“I made a difficult decision to transfer for several reasons. But, in the end, I’m happy to express my genuine excitement about joining The University of Texas Longhorns! With a focus on player development, the chance to compete on a national stage in Omaha, and the guidance of a renowned coaching staff, I am eager to embark on this new chapter of my academic and athletic career.”
“Throughout the process, I had the privilege of meeting and learning from some of the most outstanding coaches in the country. However, in the end, the opportunity to come back home and play for the University of Texas proved to be a dream come true.”
“Reflecting on my decision, I emphasize my genuine passion for the University of Texas, the program, and the vibrant community of Longhorn Nation. This decision is not only driven by my personal aspirations but also by my deep appreciation for the coaching staff and the rich tradition of the program.”
“As I join the ranks of alumni, current, and incoming Longhorns, anticipation builds for the impact I hope to make on the team and the university as a whole. The combination of talent, dedication, and the support of the Longhorn community sets the stage for an exciting journey ahead.”
“I model my game after athletic infielders such as Mookie Betts and Tulo because they are baseball grinders who worked very hard to get to where they are.”
“As I begin my journey as a Longhorn, I’ll be ready to contribute to the team's success and create lasting memories on the field. The University of Texas has welcomed me with open arms, and I can’t wait for my debut in burnt orange and white!”
“There’s only one expectation for the season and that’s to dogpile in Omaha!”
UPDATE (7/6)
Horns land 2B Ethan Mendoza from Arizona State.
As a freshman for the Sun Devils, he played in 53 games, starting 49 of them, hitting .315, collecting 35 runs, 11 doubles, 3 triples, and 3 home runs. He only walked 13 times in 49 games, but he also only struck out 22 times.
Not really known for his power, Mendoza has outstanding makeup in the box and adjusts to the zone very well.
This is a big time pickup by the Horns, who beat out Arkansas and Oklahoma for his signature.
He is the #43 ranked player in the transfer portal.
UPDATE (7/6)
He has not made a big deal about it on social media, but I have confirmed that LHP Bryce Navarre has committed to Texas.
Navarre mentioned that he did not want to make a big deal about his commitment on social media due to the backlash from A&M fans, as he was previously committed to the Aggies.
Navarre is in the 2024 class and will make his way to campus this Fall.
Here is a quick look at Navarre during an outing in the MLB Draft League. Navarre sports a high 80s fastball, but pairs it with a very high spin rate breaking ball.
TRANSFER PORTAL UPDATE (7/2)
UPDATE (7/2):
Horns continue their run on the Texas A&M 2025 class as they flip another kid, this time, RHP Jadyn Ferguson from Saint Louis Missouri. Kid has a big time arm.
UPDATE (7/2)
The Longhorns have officially flipped their third A&M commit from the 2025 class as RHP Grady Westphal of Kansas has committed to Texas.
UPDATE (7/1)
Have it on good authority that Max Belyeu is running it BACK!
Should expect the formal announcement soon.
UPDATE (7/1)
Horns receive some good news on the day, on top of bringing in transfer portal pitcher Thomas Burns.
COMMIT UPDATE (7/1)
Texas has landed a commitment from rising Sophomore Thomas Burns (Arizona State).
As a freshman, Burns had a 1-1 record with a 4.75 ERA. He appeared in 6 games, making the start in all 6, pitching 30.1 innings, striking out 39 batters.
UPDATE (7/1):
I have confirmed that JUCO transfer Kyrin LeBlanc has opened up his recruitment and will not attend Texas in the Fall.
This is not much a surprise at all as the staff will want to focus their attention on other options that are more refined and he was a kid that David Pierce wanted to recruit largely based on potential.
COMMIT UPDATE (6/30)
Horns land a transfer portal commitment from OF Easton Winfield.
This is one that has been in the works, but talented OF with really solid bat.
Coaching staff is complete (6/30):
Head Coach - Jim Schlossnagle
Assistant Head Coach / Recruiting - Nolan Cain
Assistant Coach - Hitting: Troy Tulowitzki
Assistant Coach - Pitching: Max Weiner
Director of Operations: Drew Bishop
COACHING UPDATE (6/30)
Still hearing a lot of chatter about OF Max Belyeu heading to A&M with the departure of Caleb Longley
COACH UPDATE (6/29)
Not surprising at all, but Chris Gordon will no longer be with the program.
UPDATE (6/28):
It has been confirmed that Freshman INF Dee Kennedy has entered the transfer portal.
Kennedy hit .209 in the 52 games that he played in, starting 40 of those 52.
STAFF UPDATE (6/28):
Sources have indicated that Director of Operations Carli Todd is not being retained under the new staff.
UPDATE (6/28)
Horns flip another one from A&M as 2025 RHP Jack Paris has announced his commitment to the Longhorns.
Paris, out of Kincaid HS in Houston, is a 6'3" right hander that has a fastball that sits in the low 90s.
He was in the inaugural edition of the Five Tool 55 back in November 2023 as well.
UPDATE (6/28)
JUCO LHP Brandon Arvidson has asked for a release from his Letter of Intent.
The talented lefty went to Texas A&M out of high school (Dripping Springs), but left the program and went the JUCO route. Despite his love for the University of Texas, he will look for opportunities elsewhere.
June 3rd:
JUNE 4TH
JUNE 5TH
JUNE 6th
JUNE 10th
UPDATE (6/11):
The silence continues.
Checked in with several folks this morning to see if there is any pending announcement and I was told again that nothing is finalized and that there are still several names that are being discussed.
I did ask around some of the big names and here is what I was advised.
Jim Schlossnagle - all quiet. His team is in Omaha and focused on the first round matchup against Florida. I was told that the new AD Alberts helped settle a lot of his concerns with the $80M pledge for facilities upgrades, and that despite a continued close relationship with CDC, this one is less likely.
Tony Vitello - enquired about Maserati Tony again and was told that while he may very well be the guy, there is no one that believes he is leaving Tennessee. His agent Sexton, who is currently negotiating a contract extension loves the fact that Texas and Vitello are being mentioned though.
Erik Bakich - this one makes all the sense in the world....except for one fact. Does Bakich actually want to leave Clemson? Indications are that he likes where he is at. Could that change with a big formal offer, sure, but that hasn't happened yet.
Brian O'Connor - there continues to be interest from both sides. Difficult is that BOC has his team in Omaha, so nothing would happen till shortly thereafter. This continues to be one to watch.
Where that does leave things. If Texas does strike out on those top four candidates, which is certainly in the realm of possibilities, the Horns will need to take a fresh look at coaches that fit the profile and candidacy of the position....which of course is not even open yet officially.
I continue to hear that it is but a matter of time for when the position opens and the silence from CDC and the athletic department certainly do no dispel that.
It has been mentioned multiple times by folks on the board that if there is not a major upgrade in place, why not keep Pierce? Here are a few thoughts on that.
1. The decision has already been made at the top based on what I have heard from numerous folks.
2. The perceived direction and trajectory of the program is not one with an arrow pointed upward.
3. The constant staff turnover and inability to truly bring in elite assistant coaches has not gone unnoticed.
4. Going into the next season, Pierce will only have two years remaining on his contract and if the school is not going to give him a contract extension, he effectively is crippled and becomes a dead man walking when it comes to recruiting high school prep prospects and in the transfer portal.
5. The feedback from some SEC coaches is that transfer portal entrants is that Texas is not even being considered or in the conversation.
6. Taking over as pitching coach and them having one of the worst seasons was certainly not in Pierce's favor.
7. Miller leaving (see above) mid-season and several incidents with parents over the past two season have not been viewed upon as favorably.
At the end of the day is Pierce a bad guy or a bad coach? Absolutely not. He can micromanage and be tough to work for/with, yes, but he isn't a bad coach.
When looking at the variables above, you have to ask yourself two main questions. Is the program going in the right director and can he win a national championship?
Those are the same questions that were asked about Herman, so it is not anything new.
If the answers to either are no, you have to begin looking for a candidate that you believe can check both those boxes. Augie Garrido is not walking into the building. People need to adjust expectations and understand an unpopular opinion.
Texas Baseball is not the most elite program in all aspects as it once was. It has not won a title since 2005. It has not been in the title game since 2009. The advent of the transfer portal and even NIL has allowed many programs to be able to offer just as much TODAY than Texas can.
Is Texas still an elite job. HELL YES. Does Texas have an allure and a ton of history with the ability to recruit simply based on name alone. YES. The program still needs a steward and care taker though that can manage and develop young men and talent.
JUNE 13TH
Nice entrance into the portal that Texas could kick the tires on. Big 12 All-Freshman Ace Reese of Houston has entered the transfer portal.
Good look at the Top 100 committed players in the transfer portal.....Georgia is on FIRE!
You can officially strike Brian O'Connor from the list of candidates for the Texas job.
UPDATE (6/13):
There will not be an official announcement today from Texas regarding the status of David Pierce due to contractual matters, but it has been made clear and the next step will be an official announcement from CDC (Texas) that Coach Pierce has been fired.
As far as who will be the next coach, that name has not been released, but they have narrowed it down to an individual and he has stated that when the official offer is made, which can only be done once Pierce is officially removed, he will say yes.
UPDATE (6/17):
All is quiet on the Western Front. Does that mean nothing is happening? NO.
After talking with numerous folks this weekend and this morning, this continues to be the CDC show. He has a plan and continues to work towards his vision for what he wants to see from Texas Baseball.
At this juncture, it would not surprise me to see this go until the CWS is over, but with CDC, there is no telling what his specific timeline is.
Stay tuned and please.....NO PISSING OF PANTS, but CDC will action his plan when he has everything lined up.
On the recruiting front - the Texas OneFund continues work behind the scenes to bolster the Texas roster. If you have not already done so, make sure to set up those donations to OneFund. In case you have questions around that, reach out to @AgaveHorn
Here is a brief look at some summer ball activity for a few Longhorns.
Will Gasparino got going in the Cape with his first hit of the summer, cranking a HR over to right CF
Dee Kennedy has been a mainstay with Santa Barbara Foresters this summer. In 17 ABs, Dee is hitting .333, while playing a number of different positions.
RHP Cody Howard is also playing for Santa Barbara, having made one start this season.
4.2 IP
1 R
5 H
1 BB
7 K
0.00 ERA
Nik Sanders is also playing for Santa Barbara and in 12 ABs, he is hitting .600 on the season.
Hudson Hamilton is also playing for Santa Barbara this summer. Hamilton has thrown 2.1 innings, giving up 3 runs, 2 hits, 4 walks, 4 strikeouts
Rylan Galvan is playing for Wareham Gatemen in the Cape Cod League. Wareham has only played two games this season, with Galvan getting the nod at catcher in the first game. Unfortunately, he went 0-3 on the afternoon with 1 strikeout.
Blake Peterson is playing for the Yakima Valley Pippins. In 4 games, he has had 11 at-bats, scoring a 1 run, 2 hits, 2 RBI and 6 strikeouts for a .182 batting average.
Casey Cummings is playing with the Walnut Creek Crawdads again this summer. Through 8 games, he has had 28 at-bats with a .250 batting average, 11 runs, 7 hits, 2 doubles, 1 home run, 6 RBI, 9 walks, 9 strikeouts, and 4 stolen bases.
Tommy Farmer and Luke Harrison are both with Healdsburg Packers who have played just one game so far. Tommy did get a single at-bat, but did not record a hit, while Harrison did not appear in the first game.
Casey Borba is playing with the San Luis Obispo Blues this summer, but has yet to make an appearance so far this summer. He may have been a late addition or showed up late.
Cole Selvig is playing for the Eau Claire Express. He has pitched in two games so far with a 0-1 record. 2.2 IP, 3 H, 5 R, 1 BB, 2 K.
UPDATE (6/24)
Yes, yes. Another day with no action. I get it. Lots of pants pissing, hand wringing, and Hail Marys.
The good news is that after talking to several folks last night, the end is near and movement is expected this week. I’ll hazard a guess of Wednesday, but as was once said, it’s fluid 🤣
In all seriousness, everything is in place and there is no expectation that this goes into next week.
So for now, pour a belt, meditate, or go for a nice walk, the answers you have been seeking will be here soon.
UPDATE (6/24)
TRANSFER PORTAL UPDATE (6/26)
Here are a few names from A&M that have been bandied about as potentially hitting the transfer portal.
This is not to say they will end up at Texas, but have to think that Texas will be considered.
So INF Kaeden Kent
Fr UTIL Gavin Grahovac
Fr OF Caden Sorrell
So OF Jace LaViolette
So RHP Justin Lamkin
I would also expect several Texas Longhorns to hit the portal today as well, as they ponder their future.
TRANSFER PORTAL UPDATE (6/26):
Going to be a lot of entrants today.
Ranked #1
OF Jace LaViolette
Ranked #2
3B Gavin Grahovac
Ranked # 630
Kaeden Kent - Sophomore INF - Texas A&M
Ranked # 2126
Jack Bell - Freshman 2B - Texas A&M
Ranked # 1667
Max Kaufer - Freshman Catcher - Texas A&M
TRANSFER PORTAL UPDATE (6/26):
There are still a lot of moving parts as he just entered the portal, but early indications have the #1 ranked transfer portal entrant, OF Jace LaViolette from Texas A&M leaning towards LSU.
Originally committed to LSU in high school, Jace decommitted from the Tigers to following recruiting coordinator Nolan Cain to Texas A&M.
Cain is now at Texas, but the indications I have received is that LSU holds the early advantage.
In addition, LSU does not have any catchers on it's current roster due to graduation and Brady Neal entering the portal. Kaufer, a freshman from A&M is seen as someone who they can win and get on campus as both of the committed catchers are draft risks.
RECRUITING UPDATE (6/26)
Texas signee catcher Ryan Schwartz has requested a release from his NLI and is opening up his recruitment.
TRANSFER PORTAL UPDATE (6/27)
Transfer Portal #149 Matt Bergevin, a talented hitter and 1B from Fairfield will be visiting Monday. Currently he is committed to Texas A&M
UPDATE (6/28)
JUCO transfer Bryson Dudley of Blinn has reopened his recruitment due to the new staff at Texas. He is not expected to be the last that does.
While the Horns turn their attention to the transfer portal and an impending coaching search, there is a lot of moving parts out there, so lets use this thread to keep things update.
NEW UPDATES WILL BE AT THE TOP GOING FORWARD:
UPDATE (7/15)
In case you missed it last night, here were the results for Texas.
#11 - Byrce Rainer (Texas signee) - Detroit
#18 - Theo Gillen (Texas signee) - Tampa Bay
#37 - Levi Sterling (Texas signee) - Pittsburgh
#42 - Jared Thomas - Colorado
UPDATE (7/15)
As expected, LHP David Ramirez, who recently visited Texas and then announced he had decomitted, has committed to Texas A&M.
UPDATE( 7/14)
Texas signee Bryce Rainer has been selected 11th overall by Detroit
Texas signee Theo Gillen has been selected 18th overall by Tampa Bay
UPDATE (7/14)
After Texas released him from his LOI, RHP Gavin Lyons visited Texas A&M and has committed to the Aggies.
UPDATE (7/12)
Another one! Texas Baseball lands a commitment from 2024 RHP Drew Rerick. The 2023-2024 North Dakota baseball player of the year (yes, you read that correctly) had been committed to Texas A&M, but has flipped his commitment to the Longhorns.
Currently ranked #140 by MLB Prospect list, the imposing 6’5” Rerick has a fastball that has been up to 98, though normally sitting 92-95. Rerick also has a mid-80s slider and a low 80s curve.
A draft risk, Rerick could be the highest drafted player out of the state of North Dakota. If the Horns can get him on campus though, he would be another big arm that Coach Max Weiner will certainly look forward to molding.
UPDATE (7/11)
Horns land another talented arm out of the transfer portal as UTSA product Ruger Riojas has committed to Texas.
10-3
7 saves
3.25 ERA
26 appearances
69.1 IP
18 BB
75 K
UPDATE (7/11)
Horns land the top in state prospect that has been committed to Texas Tech, in SA Johnson product Kayson Cunningham.
MASSIVE pick up for the Horns that adds to a 2025 class that is going to be super special.
2025 SCHEDULE UPDATE (7/11)
Get your plane tickets ready...the Horns are headed to Vegas to take part in the Las Vegas Baseball Classic.
UPDATE (7/9)
Texas dips into the transfer portal again and lands a commitment from RHP Derek Vartanian, formerly of Campbell.
While the numbers will certainly not blow you away, Derek missed the majority of last season due to injury, so wouldn’t read too much into them.
He was a guy that showed some promise last Fall as he came out firing 97.
2024: Made three starts before being sidelined with injury ... Recorded 15 strikeouts in 11.0 innings, including an 11 strikeout, 6.0 IP shutout performance against Ohio (2/23).
3 appearances, 3 starts, 1-2, 7.36 ERA, 11 IP
UPDATE (7/9)
RHP Matthew Millett has been released from his NLI and will seek an opportunity to play elsewhere.
Unfortunately, Millett has had some ongoing injury issues recently, so the staff has decided to go in another direction.
UPDATE (7/9)
The Horns dip into the JUCO ranks again and land a commitment from LHP Ethan Walker of Walters State CC.
Gotta love a weird arm slot guy for the bullpen
UPDATE (7/9)
In case you missed it yesterday, here is the link to the video I recorded with Dustin McComas talking about the Longhorns and the upcoming MLB Draft. - MLB Draft Preview
UPDATE (7/9)
The RHP pitcher from Hawaii has been released from his NLI and has reopened his recruitment.
One time, folks thought he might be a draft risk, but the progression hasn’t quite been there.
There is at least one more that I am expecting to be released as well.
UPDATE (7/8):
I have confirmed that RHP Jackson Jordan has been released from his NLI as the staff
UPDATE (7/8)
Horns land a commitment from LHP Kade Bing of McLennan Baseball.
Can't say I know a ton about him, but according to Dustin McComas, he is a kid that can really pitch well.
This past season at McLennan, Bing made 16 appearances, started 11 games and ended the season with a 9-2 record. He pitched 70.1 innings and sported a 3.33 ERA.
UPDATE (7/8)
LHP Tyler Walton of San Antonio Johnson has requested a release from his NLI and reopened his recruitment. Walton is a class of 2024 pitcher.
UPDATE (7/7)
The Texas staff has flipped another Texas A&M signee as 2024 Flower Mound Adrian Rodriguez has committed to Texas.
Rodriguez was a leading hitter in 6A and was named Dallas Morning News Offensive Player of the Year for 2024.
UPDATE (7/7):
Quotes and Comments from recent transfer 2B Ethan Mendoza.
“I made a difficult decision to transfer for several reasons. But, in the end, I’m happy to express my genuine excitement about joining The University of Texas Longhorns! With a focus on player development, the chance to compete on a national stage in Omaha, and the guidance of a renowned coaching staff, I am eager to embark on this new chapter of my academic and athletic career.”
“Throughout the process, I had the privilege of meeting and learning from some of the most outstanding coaches in the country. However, in the end, the opportunity to come back home and play for the University of Texas proved to be a dream come true.”
“Reflecting on my decision, I emphasize my genuine passion for the University of Texas, the program, and the vibrant community of Longhorn Nation. This decision is not only driven by my personal aspirations but also by my deep appreciation for the coaching staff and the rich tradition of the program.”
“As I join the ranks of alumni, current, and incoming Longhorns, anticipation builds for the impact I hope to make on the team and the university as a whole. The combination of talent, dedication, and the support of the Longhorn community sets the stage for an exciting journey ahead.”
“I model my game after athletic infielders such as Mookie Betts and Tulo because they are baseball grinders who worked very hard to get to where they are.”
“As I begin my journey as a Longhorn, I’ll be ready to contribute to the team's success and create lasting memories on the field. The University of Texas has welcomed me with open arms, and I can’t wait for my debut in burnt orange and white!”
“There’s only one expectation for the season and that’s to dogpile in Omaha!”
UPDATE (7/6)
Horns land 2B Ethan Mendoza from Arizona State.
As a freshman for the Sun Devils, he played in 53 games, starting 49 of them, hitting .315, collecting 35 runs, 11 doubles, 3 triples, and 3 home runs. He only walked 13 times in 49 games, but he also only struck out 22 times.
Not really known for his power, Mendoza has outstanding makeup in the box and adjusts to the zone very well.
This is a big time pickup by the Horns, who beat out Arkansas and Oklahoma for his signature.
He is the #43 ranked player in the transfer portal.
UPDATE (7/6)
He has not made a big deal about it on social media, but I have confirmed that LHP Bryce Navarre has committed to Texas.
Navarre mentioned that he did not want to make a big deal about his commitment on social media due to the backlash from A&M fans, as he was previously committed to the Aggies.
Navarre is in the 2024 class and will make his way to campus this Fall.
Here is a quick look at Navarre during an outing in the MLB Draft League. Navarre sports a high 80s fastball, but pairs it with a very high spin rate breaking ball.
TRANSFER PORTAL UPDATE (7/2)
UPDATE (7/2):
Horns continue their run on the Texas A&M 2025 class as they flip another kid, this time, RHP Jadyn Ferguson from Saint Louis Missouri. Kid has a big time arm.
UPDATE (7/2)
The Longhorns have officially flipped their third A&M commit from the 2025 class as RHP Grady Westphal of Kansas has committed to Texas.
UPDATE (7/1)
Have it on good authority that Max Belyeu is running it BACK!
Should expect the formal announcement soon.
UPDATE (7/1)
Horns receive some good news on the day, on top of bringing in transfer portal pitcher Thomas Burns.
COMMIT UPDATE (7/1)
Texas has landed a commitment from rising Sophomore Thomas Burns (Arizona State).
As a freshman, Burns had a 1-1 record with a 4.75 ERA. He appeared in 6 games, making the start in all 6, pitching 30.1 innings, striking out 39 batters.
UPDATE (7/1):
I have confirmed that JUCO transfer Kyrin LeBlanc has opened up his recruitment and will not attend Texas in the Fall.
This is not much a surprise at all as the staff will want to focus their attention on other options that are more refined and he was a kid that David Pierce wanted to recruit largely based on potential.
COMMIT UPDATE (6/30)
Horns land a transfer portal commitment from OF Easton Winfield.
This is one that has been in the works, but talented OF with really solid bat.
Coaching staff is complete (6/30):
Head Coach - Jim Schlossnagle
Assistant Head Coach / Recruiting - Nolan Cain
Assistant Coach - Hitting: Troy Tulowitzki
Assistant Coach - Pitching: Max Weiner
Director of Operations: Drew Bishop
COACHING UPDATE (6/30)
Still hearing a lot of chatter about OF Max Belyeu heading to A&M with the departure of Caleb Longley
COACH UPDATE (6/29)
Not surprising at all, but Chris Gordon will no longer be with the program.
UPDATE (6/28):
It has been confirmed that Freshman INF Dee Kennedy has entered the transfer portal.
Kennedy hit .209 in the 52 games that he played in, starting 40 of those 52.
STAFF UPDATE (6/28):
Sources have indicated that Director of Operations Carli Todd is not being retained under the new staff.
UPDATE (6/28)
Horns flip another one from A&M as 2025 RHP Jack Paris has announced his commitment to the Longhorns.
Paris, out of Kincaid HS in Houston, is a 6'3" right hander that has a fastball that sits in the low 90s.
He was in the inaugural edition of the Five Tool 55 back in November 2023 as well.
UPDATE (6/28)
JUCO LHP Brandon Arvidson has asked for a release from his Letter of Intent.
The talented lefty went to Texas A&M out of high school (Dripping Springs), but left the program and went the JUCO route. Despite his love for the University of Texas, he will look for opportunities elsewhere.
June 3rd:
- Big news this morning that was expected is that Mark Kingston has been fired as head coach of South Carolina.
- LHP Chase Lummus is calling it quits on his baseball career at Texas per his mom.
- A decision has not been made on whether he is hitting the portal for a smaller school or quitting baseball all together yet
- Transfer News - Texas Tech is feeling the pain of a poor season with a plethora of entrants
- Gavin Kash - (he is draft eligible)
- Owen Washburn
- Garet Boehm (younger brother of Texas RHP Gage Boehm)
- Travis Sanders
- Landon Stripling
- Gage Harrelson
- Transfer News - TCU has a pair of players enter the portal
- Gabe Miranda - freshman from Orange Lutheran - solid stick and defender
- Jake Duer
- Transfer News - Oklahoma
- Jace Miner enters the portal a year after transferring to OU from Wichita State
JUNE 4TH
- RHP Grant Fontenot of Texas, who left the team back on April 10th is in the transfer portal.
- Duke Ellis has been called up by the Chicago Whitesox!
- TCU DH Logan Maxwell has entered the portal, along with 2B Ryder Robinson, and P Holden Harris
JUNE 5TH
- Quite a few big time pitchers are in the transfer portal, the most notable one is Zach Root of East Carolina. Lot of big time programs will be chasing him, including Texas and A&M.
- Texas Tech transfer Landon Stripling is headed to Florida to play for the Gators next season.
- Woody Williams is taking over as pitching coach at Houston after spending one season as a staff member.
JUNE 6th
- for all those holding out hope it would Tony Vitello of Tennessee. It won’t. You can cross his name off the list.
- The same can be said of Coach Jim Schlossnagle. Based on what I’ve heard, no reason to believe he will be the guy.
JUNE 10th
- Rising sophomore INF Sam Ardoin is in the transfer portal
UPDATE (6/11):
The silence continues.
Checked in with several folks this morning to see if there is any pending announcement and I was told again that nothing is finalized and that there are still several names that are being discussed.
I did ask around some of the big names and here is what I was advised.
Jim Schlossnagle - all quiet. His team is in Omaha and focused on the first round matchup against Florida. I was told that the new AD Alberts helped settle a lot of his concerns with the $80M pledge for facilities upgrades, and that despite a continued close relationship with CDC, this one is less likely.
Tony Vitello - enquired about Maserati Tony again and was told that while he may very well be the guy, there is no one that believes he is leaving Tennessee. His agent Sexton, who is currently negotiating a contract extension loves the fact that Texas and Vitello are being mentioned though.
Erik Bakich - this one makes all the sense in the world....except for one fact. Does Bakich actually want to leave Clemson? Indications are that he likes where he is at. Could that change with a big formal offer, sure, but that hasn't happened yet.
Brian O'Connor - there continues to be interest from both sides. Difficult is that BOC has his team in Omaha, so nothing would happen till shortly thereafter. This continues to be one to watch.
Where that does leave things. If Texas does strike out on those top four candidates, which is certainly in the realm of possibilities, the Horns will need to take a fresh look at coaches that fit the profile and candidacy of the position....which of course is not even open yet officially.
I continue to hear that it is but a matter of time for when the position opens and the silence from CDC and the athletic department certainly do no dispel that.
It has been mentioned multiple times by folks on the board that if there is not a major upgrade in place, why not keep Pierce? Here are a few thoughts on that.
1. The decision has already been made at the top based on what I have heard from numerous folks.
2. The perceived direction and trajectory of the program is not one with an arrow pointed upward.
3. The constant staff turnover and inability to truly bring in elite assistant coaches has not gone unnoticed.
4. Going into the next season, Pierce will only have two years remaining on his contract and if the school is not going to give him a contract extension, he effectively is crippled and becomes a dead man walking when it comes to recruiting high school prep prospects and in the transfer portal.
5. The feedback from some SEC coaches is that transfer portal entrants is that Texas is not even being considered or in the conversation.
6. Taking over as pitching coach and them having one of the worst seasons was certainly not in Pierce's favor.
7. Miller leaving (see above) mid-season and several incidents with parents over the past two season have not been viewed upon as favorably.
At the end of the day is Pierce a bad guy or a bad coach? Absolutely not. He can micromanage and be tough to work for/with, yes, but he isn't a bad coach.
When looking at the variables above, you have to ask yourself two main questions. Is the program going in the right director and can he win a national championship?
Those are the same questions that were asked about Herman, so it is not anything new.
If the answers to either are no, you have to begin looking for a candidate that you believe can check both those boxes. Augie Garrido is not walking into the building. People need to adjust expectations and understand an unpopular opinion.
Texas Baseball is not the most elite program in all aspects as it once was. It has not won a title since 2005. It has not been in the title game since 2009. The advent of the transfer portal and even NIL has allowed many programs to be able to offer just as much TODAY than Texas can.
Is Texas still an elite job. HELL YES. Does Texas have an allure and a ton of history with the ability to recruit simply based on name alone. YES. The program still needs a steward and care taker though that can manage and develop young men and talent.
JUNE 13TH
Nice entrance into the portal that Texas could kick the tires on. Big 12 All-Freshman Ace Reese of Houston has entered the transfer portal.
Good look at the Top 100 committed players in the transfer portal.....Georgia is on FIRE!
You can officially strike Brian O'Connor from the list of candidates for the Texas job.
UPDATE (6/13):
There will not be an official announcement today from Texas regarding the status of David Pierce due to contractual matters, but it has been made clear and the next step will be an official announcement from CDC (Texas) that Coach Pierce has been fired.
As far as who will be the next coach, that name has not been released, but they have narrowed it down to an individual and he has stated that when the official offer is made, which can only be done once Pierce is officially removed, he will say yes.
UPDATE (6/17):
All is quiet on the Western Front. Does that mean nothing is happening? NO.
After talking with numerous folks this weekend and this morning, this continues to be the CDC show. He has a plan and continues to work towards his vision for what he wants to see from Texas Baseball.
At this juncture, it would not surprise me to see this go until the CWS is over, but with CDC, there is no telling what his specific timeline is.
Stay tuned and please.....NO PISSING OF PANTS, but CDC will action his plan when he has everything lined up.
On the recruiting front - the Texas OneFund continues work behind the scenes to bolster the Texas roster. If you have not already done so, make sure to set up those donations to OneFund. In case you have questions around that, reach out to @AgaveHorn
Here is a brief look at some summer ball activity for a few Longhorns.
Will Gasparino got going in the Cape with his first hit of the summer, cranking a HR over to right CF
Dee Kennedy has been a mainstay with Santa Barbara Foresters this summer. In 17 ABs, Dee is hitting .333, while playing a number of different positions.
RHP Cody Howard is also playing for Santa Barbara, having made one start this season.
4.2 IP
1 R
5 H
1 BB
7 K
0.00 ERA
Nik Sanders is also playing for Santa Barbara and in 12 ABs, he is hitting .600 on the season.
Hudson Hamilton is also playing for Santa Barbara this summer. Hamilton has thrown 2.1 innings, giving up 3 runs, 2 hits, 4 walks, 4 strikeouts
Rylan Galvan is playing for Wareham Gatemen in the Cape Cod League. Wareham has only played two games this season, with Galvan getting the nod at catcher in the first game. Unfortunately, he went 0-3 on the afternoon with 1 strikeout.
Blake Peterson is playing for the Yakima Valley Pippins. In 4 games, he has had 11 at-bats, scoring a 1 run, 2 hits, 2 RBI and 6 strikeouts for a .182 batting average.
Casey Cummings is playing with the Walnut Creek Crawdads again this summer. Through 8 games, he has had 28 at-bats with a .250 batting average, 11 runs, 7 hits, 2 doubles, 1 home run, 6 RBI, 9 walks, 9 strikeouts, and 4 stolen bases.
Tommy Farmer and Luke Harrison are both with Healdsburg Packers who have played just one game so far. Tommy did get a single at-bat, but did not record a hit, while Harrison did not appear in the first game.
Casey Borba is playing with the San Luis Obispo Blues this summer, but has yet to make an appearance so far this summer. He may have been a late addition or showed up late.
Cole Selvig is playing for the Eau Claire Express. He has pitched in two games so far with a 0-1 record. 2.2 IP, 3 H, 5 R, 1 BB, 2 K.
UPDATE (6/24)
Yes, yes. Another day with no action. I get it. Lots of pants pissing, hand wringing, and Hail Marys.
The good news is that after talking to several folks last night, the end is near and movement is expected this week. I’ll hazard a guess of Wednesday, but as was once said, it’s fluid 🤣
In all seriousness, everything is in place and there is no expectation that this goes into next week.
So for now, pour a belt, meditate, or go for a nice walk, the answers you have been seeking will be here soon.
UPDATE (6/24)
TRANSFER PORTAL UPDATE (6/26)
Here are a few names from A&M that have been bandied about as potentially hitting the transfer portal.
This is not to say they will end up at Texas, but have to think that Texas will be considered.
So INF Kaeden Kent
Fr UTIL Gavin Grahovac
Fr OF Caden Sorrell
So OF Jace LaViolette
So RHP Justin Lamkin
I would also expect several Texas Longhorns to hit the portal today as well, as they ponder their future.
TRANSFER PORTAL UPDATE (6/26):
Going to be a lot of entrants today.
Ranked #1
OF Jace LaViolette
Ranked #2
3B Gavin Grahovac
Ranked # 630
Kaeden Kent - Sophomore INF - Texas A&M
Ranked # 2126
Jack Bell - Freshman 2B - Texas A&M
Ranked # 1667
Max Kaufer - Freshman Catcher - Texas A&M
TRANSFER PORTAL UPDATE (6/26):
There are still a lot of moving parts as he just entered the portal, but early indications have the #1 ranked transfer portal entrant, OF Jace LaViolette from Texas A&M leaning towards LSU.
Originally committed to LSU in high school, Jace decommitted from the Tigers to following recruiting coordinator Nolan Cain to Texas A&M.
Cain is now at Texas, but the indications I have received is that LSU holds the early advantage.
In addition, LSU does not have any catchers on it's current roster due to graduation and Brady Neal entering the portal. Kaufer, a freshman from A&M is seen as someone who they can win and get on campus as both of the committed catchers are draft risks.
RECRUITING UPDATE (6/26)
Texas signee catcher Ryan Schwartz has requested a release from his NLI and is opening up his recruitment.
TRANSFER PORTAL UPDATE (6/27)
Transfer Portal #149 Matt Bergevin, a talented hitter and 1B from Fairfield will be visiting Monday. Currently he is committed to Texas A&M
UPDATE (6/28)
JUCO transfer Bryson Dudley of Blinn has reopened his recruitment due to the new staff at Texas. He is not expected to be the last that does.
Last edited:
