News Summary
Baylor University’s baseball team faces elimination from NCAA Tournament contention following a tough conference season. With a recent record of 31 wins and 20 losses overall and just 11 wins in Big 12 play, their path to qualifying for the Big 12 Tournament relies on winning against UCF or needing BYU to lose to Texas Tech. Despite notable individual performances, the team has struggled offensively and defensively, raising concerns about their postseason aspirations as they approach Senior Day and wrap up the regular season.
Baylor Baseball’s NCAA Tournament Hopes Dwindle After Difficult Conference Season
Waco, Texas – Baylor University’s baseball team has been effectively eliminated from NCAA Tournament contention following a challenging performance in conference play. The Bears currently hold a record of 31 wins and 20 losses overall, with a disappointing 11 wins and 16 losses in Big 12 play.
To secure a spot in the Big 12 Tournament, Baylor must accomplish one of two scenarios: they need to win a game against UCF or rely on BYU losing to Texas Tech in order to clinch a coveted conference tournament berth. Despite early-season optimism, which saw Baylor highlighted as a potential NCAA Tournament team by several analysts, the Bears’ recent struggles on the field have made their postseason aspirations appear bleak.
Over the last few weeks, Baylor’s performance has notably declined, with the team losing six out of their last nine conference games. Their offensive output has been particularly concerning; since April 4, they have recorded a troubling .235 batting average with runners on base and a mere .220 average with runners in scoring position. The inability to capitalize in critical moments has contributed to a series of disappointing performances, including back-to-back losses where the team failed to score more than 15 runs in five out of six series.
Adding to their woes, Baylor experienced a shutout loss for the first time this season against Oklahoma State, where they were defeated 4-0. Head coach Mitch Thompson has been vocal about his frustration regarding the team’s offensive struggles, pointing to a lack of necessary adjustments among players.
On a more positive note, certain individuals have stood out amid the challenges. Tyriq Kemp currently leads the Bears with a batting average of .358 and an on-base percentage of .446. He has also been recognized for his strong defensive capabilities. Following closely in the batting stats is Travis Sanders, whose performance includes a batting average of .342 and an on-base percentage of .429. Defensive improvements are evident, as the team has recorded a batting average against of .248 and a WHIP (walks plus hits per inning pitched) of 1.33.
Baylor’s pitching staff has also seen marked improvement under the guidance of first-year pitching coach Sean Snedeker. The team has reduced its earned run average to 4.52, a significant decline from the previous year’s 6.51. Gabe Craig has emerged as a standout pitcher in the bullpen, showcasing a stellar 0.61 ERA and an impressive 46-to-3 strikeout-to-walk ratio. His contributions include securing his 10th save of the season in a recent match against UCF.
In a recent game, Baylor managed a thrilling comeback against UCF, scoring three runs in the top of the ninth inning to clinch a 5-4 victory. This win ensured their participation in the upcoming 2025 Phillips 66 Big 12 Championship, where they are guaranteed at least the No. 11 seed in the tournament. With two weeks remaining in the regular season, the Bears currently sit 11th in the Big 12 standings and are receiving votes in the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association’s Top 25 poll.
This weekend, the team will honor 15 seniors during a Senior Day ceremony, reflecting on their contributions to the program amid the struggles of the current season. As the regular season comes to a close, Baylor’s future remains uncertain, with hopes for a turnaround hinging on their ability to maximize the next few games.
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