Virginia fans exhaled in relief as baseball made its comeback to Disharoon Park on October 20. The Cavaliers' long-awaited return was marked by a few intrasquad scrimmages and two exhibition doubleheaders against Maryland and UNC Wilmington. Now that fall ball is over, let's delve into the key takeaways from Virginia baseball's initial rounds of public play.

Unveiling Virginia Baseball's Post-Return Insights

Offense and Defense: Set to Repeat Last Year's Success

Despite significant losses, the offense and defense of the Virginia Cavaliers seem primed to replicate their success from last year. Key players like Griff O'Ferrall, Ethan Anderson, Casey Saucke, and Anthony Stephan were selected in the 2024 MLB Draft. Four high school recruits and an incoming transfer also chose to pursue lucrative signing bonuses elsewhere. However, the roster for the 2024-25 season remains overwhelmingly talented, especially on the offensive side. Junior outfielder Harrison Didawick led the team in home runs, smacking 23 and hitting.292. Sophomore outfielder Henry Ford, who transitioned from first base, is set to join him in the outfield, forming a tantalizing duo. The infield also benefits from relative continuity, with sophomore Eric Becker, junior Henry Godbout, and junior Luke Hanson likely to stay in their respective positions. Graduate catcher Jacob Ference returns for his final year and was a surprise contributor last season, becoming one of the best hitting catchers in the country.

Field Contention: Areas of Uncertainty

There are a few areas of contention in the field. At first base, junior college transfer Chris Arroyo and sophomore Antonio Perrotta are vying for the starting spot. Both showed power in the exhibition games. The final outfield slot is also up for grabs. Junior utility player Aidan Teel, who has battled injuries, could take on a starting role. Highly-touted freshman James Nunnallee, a catcher and outfielder, also saw time in the outfield during the exhibitions. Sophomore Walker Buchanan also got a chance in the second exhibition game. Coach O'Connor is still deciding who will take on the starting role.

Pitching Struggles: Jury Still Out

Virginia fans hoping for significant pitching improvement in 2025 should temper their expectations. Neither of the exhibition opponents, Maryland and UNC Wilmington, had high-powered offenses, yet the Cavaliers still surrendered 24 runs. True aces like senior pitcher Jay Woolfolk and junior pitcher Evan Blanco did not pitch significant innings. Newcomers like Arroyo, Alex Markus from William & Mary, and freshman Tomas Valincius struggled when they pitched against the Seahawks, allowing six runs collectively. However, some holdovers like sophomore Charlie Oschell and senior Dean Kampschror held their ground and threw scoreless innings in relief. Against Maryland, sophomore Bryson Moore had some early struggles but settled in. Lynchburg transfer Wes Arrington also struggled in relief. While conclusions cannot be drawn based solely on exhibition games, it is clear that Virginia has yet to fully identify their reliable pitchers outside of Woolfolk and Blanco. There is still work to be done, but fans can expect improvement.

Promising Newcomers: Set to Make an Impact

Despite losing several highly-anticipated recruits to the MLB Draft, this year's incoming class of recruits and transfers looked impressive during exhibition play. Arroyo, a transfer from Pasco-Hernando State junior college, played in both exhibitions and hit two home runs. He also pitched in the second game and is likely to make an immediate impact. Another breakout candidate is freshman outfielder and catcher James Nunnallee. He made two impressive defensive plays in the second exhibition, showing off his arm and speed. He also looked confident at the plate, ripping a double and making solid contact. With the third outfield spot up for grabs, Nunnallee could see significant playing time and inject youth into the lineup.In conclusion, Virginia is poised to make another run at a national championship. The lineup is as dangerous as ever, with continuity from last season and high-potential recruits and transfers. The pitching staff will be crucial, and if Coach O'Connor can get the rotation in order, Virginia could be one of the most complete teams in the nation.