West Liberty, W.Va. - The West Liberty University baseball team is gearing up for a bounce-back season in 2025 after a challenging 2024 campaign marred by injuries and weather disruptions. With a healthy roster, a veteran core, and key newcomers, the Hilltoppers have their sights set on contending for a Mountain East Conference (MEC) North Division title and making noise in the MEC Tournament.

Key Losses

The Hilltoppers bid farewell to Trevor Thomas, a junior college transfer who brought winning experience and leadership to the team. His presence on and off the field will be tough to replace.

Key Returners

West Liberty returns a strong and experienced lineup, led by several veteran players:

• Ryan Talbert: A four-year starter in the infield who led the team in batting average last season.

• Will Balgo: A third-year starter and the 2023 MEC Freshman of the Year, who remains a cornerstone of the lineup.

• Jacob Sherman: The team's offensive leader and a three-year starter, poised for another big season.

• Jacob Watson: Anchors a healthy pitching staff, returning to his weekend starter role for his final collegiate season after stepping up in 2024.

• Mason Bille: A sophomore pitcher coming off an impressive freshman season, expected to handle a heavy workload in 2025.

• Luke Marsh: A standout behind the plate, leading the MEC in caught stealing during the 2024 season.

Key Newcomers

A mix of transfers and freshmen brings depth and talent to the Hilltoppers:

• William Glick: A graduate transfer from WV State, expected to hit in the middle of the lineup and be a tough out for opposing pitchers.

• Tyler Skeen: A true freshman pitcher with high potential, projected to start on weekends and emerge as a staff leader.

• Chase Lautner: Returns after missing 2024 due to injury. The Potomac State transfer is set to reclaim his role as a weekend starter.

• Mason Chaney: A promising right-handed pitcher from University High, ready to compete for innings and challenge veterans.

• Brodee Latocha: A freshman outfielder with the tools to make an immediate impact, expected to push his way into the lineup early.

Season Goals and Expectations

After enduring a difficult season due to injuries and weather, the Hilltoppers are determined to turn things around. In 2024, only 9 of 29 scheduled home games at Kovalick Field were played, and three of the four starting pitchers were sidelined with injuries, including season-ending ones for Lautner and Conley.

With a now-healthy pitching staff and a veteran lineup capable of producing runs, the Hilltoppers are optimistic about 2025. Their goals include staying healthy, earning an MEC Tournament berth, and making a run at the MEC North Division crown.

Although 2025 will feature a heavy travel schedule, the team is ready for the challenge. Key home series at Kovalick Field include matchups with Davis & Elkins, West Virginia Wesleyan, Frostburg State, Salem, and Wheeling.

WLU opens the season Friday in Rome, Ga. with a doubleheader against Shorter University with the first pitch at Noon.