Bethel University Wildcat Baseball 2025 Preview
As Coach Rusty Thompson enters his 18th season at the helm of the Wildcats in 2025, the program is poised to build on its successful 2024 campaign. With an impressive record of 421-342-2, Coach Thompson has established a winning culture at Bethel. Alongside him is Coach Nick Thompson, also entering his 18th season, and Coach Lee Whitaker, who begins his 8th season with the program.
In 2024, the Wildcats finished the season with a 32-14 overall record and a 10-8 mark in the tough Mid-South Conference, securing a second-place finish. With a strong core returning, Bethel is looking to continue that momentum and challenge for the top spots in the conference once again.
Key Departures
While the Wildcats will be without some key contributors from last year's successful squad, they'll remember the big impact made by Alexis Rodriguez, Tyler Proctor, and Lucas Boswell. Rodriguez, who led the team in saves and earned second-team All-Conference honors, alongside Proctor and Boswell, who each recorded seven wins, leaves a big hole in the pitching staff. In addition, Bryan Catala, Noah Hawkins, and Noah Foster—key starters both offensively and defensively—will be missed. But with the strength of returning talent and new additions, Bethel is confident they can overcome these losses.
Key Returners
The Wildcats return a large group of veteran players, many of whom have been with the program for 3-4 years. These seasoned players bring valuable experience, leadership, and an understanding of how to execute Bethel's style of play. The team brings back a significant portion of its offense and bullpen, along with one of the weekend starters.
Infield
The Wildcats' infield looks solid with returning starters at key positions. Zack Griffith and Rivers Moffatt return at first base, while the middle infield is anchored by returners Jose Olmeda and Luis Aristud, along with transfer Garrett Taylor. At third base, 1st Team All-Conference selection Juan Diego Ramos will lead the charge, with depth provided by Hayden Hixon, Matt Reynolds, and newcomer Bryce Hayes.
Catcher
Behind the plate, the Wildcats are in good hands with 1st Team All-Conference and four-year starter Ivan Vega. Vega's experience is complemented by solid depth, with Chase Hoover and freshman JD Binkley providing strong backup.
Outfield
Bethel's outfield is stacked with talent and competition for playing time. Gold Glove centerfielder Adriel Vega returns, along with 1st Team All-Conference and Mid-South Freshman of the Year Jared Hall. Additionally, returners CJ Thomas and Cade Pilkenton, along with newcomer Ben Smith, give the Wildcats a well-rounded and deep group in the outfield.
Utility
Wyatt McKee returns and provides versatility, with the ability to play both infield and outfield. Newcomer Jack Beck, a transfer, also adds flexibility and brings plenty of college experience to the team.
Pitching
On the mound, the Wildcats return key arms, including weekend starter Lucas Smith, who recorded seven wins in 2024, and mid-week starter Zach Zimmer. Bethel also brings back a reliable bullpen that played a crucial role last season, with Tristan Seputis, Bishop Woods, Nathan Rhodes, JJ Gray, and Balfour Roe all returning. These pitchers are poised to build on their strong outings from last season. Additionally, Adriel Vega will contribute as a pitcher, offering another solid option out of the bullpen.
Bethel has also added several talented newcomers to bolster the pitching staff. Transfer Klayton Wright looks to make an impact from the bullpen, while transfer Matt Ray competes for innings. The freshman class is particularly exciting, with Walker Ward, Reese Ellison, and Owen Boswell all ready to contribute either as starters or out of the pen. With a mix of experienced arms and promising young talent, the Wildcats' pitching staff has the potential to be a key strength in 2025.
Looking Ahead
With a balanced roster of experienced players and exciting newcomers, the Wildcats are ready to build on their 32-14 season and second-place finish in the Mid-South Conference. The combination of returning leadership and fresh talent gives Bethel a well-rounded team capable of competing at a high level in 2025.
As Coach Thompson and his staff continue to lead the team with experience and passion, the Wildcats are poised to take the next step and challenge for a championship. Expect big things from this talented group as they aim for another successful season.