As West Virginia University’s baseball program continues its strong run with national recognition in the Big 12 Conference, former Mountaineer players are preparing for significant roles in the 2026 Major League Baseball season. Fans can look forward to seeing a growing number of WVU alumni competing at various levels of professional baseball across MLB teams this spring.
J.J. Wetherholt’s Emerging Presence with the St. Louis Cardinals
J.J. Wetherholt stands out as one of the most promising young players among WVU alumni, recently selected 7th overall in the 2024 MLB Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals. Though he has yet to make his major league debut, Wetherholt’s national batting title win in 2023 and his standout hitting skills suggest a quick transition to the majors. Expectations are high that he either will be on the Cardinals’ Opening Day roster or receive a call-up early in the season, offering Mountaineer fans an exciting glimpse of his talents at the major league level.
Victor Scott II’s Role Solidifies in Center Field
Entering his third MLB season, Victor Scott II holds the starting center fielder position for the Cardinals. Known for his defensive excellence and speed, Scott has also shown notable improvements in his batting during the latter part of last year. The 2026 season is shaping up to be pivotal for Scott’s continued growth and future contributions on the Cardinals’ roster.
Alek Manoah’s Bid for a Comeback with the Los Angeles Angels
Once an All-Star in 2022 with the Toronto Blue Jays, Alek Manoah faces an important crossroads this year after battling inconsistency and injury setbacks. Drafted 11th overall in 2019, Manoah spent most of last season in the minor leagues and made only five starts for Toronto. Now signed with the Los Angeles Angels, he aims to regain his elite form and settle himself once again as a reliable starter in the majors during the 2026 campaign.
Carlson Reed Navigates a Competitive Pitching Landscape in Pittsburgh
Selected in the fourth round of the 2023 MLB Draft, Carlson Reed spent last season developing within the Pirates’ minor league system. Pittsburgh’s deep and competitive pitching staff means it may take time before Reed earns a chance to pitch in a major league game. Still, his progression this year will be closely watched by Mountaineer supporters hoping for his eventual emergence.
Kade Strowd Brings Bullpen Depth to Arizona
After his acquisition from Baltimore in the offseason, Kade Strowd looks to strengthen the Arizona Diamondbacks’ bullpen. Strowd proved effective last year with a 1.71 ERA over 25 appearances in the minors, and the Diamondbacks are counting on him to help address their pressing need for reliable relief pitching in 2026.
Ryan Bergert’s Efforts to Earn a Royals Bullpen Spot
Ryan Bergert impressed during a recent spring training outing by striking out four batters while pitching against Cuba. As he seeks to establish a role with the Kansas City Royals, Bergert hopes his performance will secure him time in the major league bullpen this season.
Jackson Wolf Targets a Full MLB Season with San Diego
After splitting time between AA and AAA in 2025, Jackson Wolf aims to secure a consistent major league spot with the San Diego Padres this year. While his 5.04 ERA over 128.2 minor league innings indicates areas for improvement, 2026 presents an opportunity for Wolf to solidify his place in the Padres’ pitching staff.
John Means Pursues Health and Impact with the Royals
John Means brings veteran experience to Kansas City following multiple injury setbacks over recent years. A former All-Star in 2019, Means hopes to return to form and contribute significantly to the Royals’ rotation if he can stay healthy during the upcoming season.
Michael Grove’s Free Agent Status After Dodgers Stint
Most recently pitching for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Michael Grove is currently a free agent. In 2024, Grove appeared in 39 games with a 5.12 ERA while recording 54 strikeouts in 51 innings. His next opportunity in professional baseball will depend on finding a team willing to invest in his potential going forward.
Other WVU Alumni Making Their Mark in the Minor Leagues
Beyond the major league rosters, several former Mountaineers are competing in the minor leagues, including outfielders Braden Barry (Toronto) and Skylar King (Boston), pitchers Derek Clark (Los Angeles Angels), David Hagaman (Arizona), Madison Jeffrey (Chicago White Sox), Jack Kartsonas (Tampa Bay), Griffin Kirn (Athletics), Robby Porco (Dodgers), Tyler Switalski (San Francisco), and Jacob Watters (Tampa Bay), as well as catchers Dayne Leonard (Cincinnati), Paul McIntosh (Philadelphia), and Logan Sauve (Athletics). Infielders Tevin Tucker (Colorado), 1B Kyle West (Tampa Bay), and utility player Sam White (Toronto) round out the contingent representing WVU in professional baseball’s developmental ranks.
The continued presence of WVU alumni across various professional baseball levels highlights the growing impact of the Mountaineer program. With several players poised to break into or establish themselves in the major leagues during 2026, fans have much to anticipate. These athletes’ performances could elevate the profile of West Virginia baseball while inspiring future prospects to aim for success both in MLB and its developmental systems.
