Ohio state’ forgotten potential frontline pitcher identified as 2025 breakout candidates
COLUMBUS, OH – As Ohio State gears up for the 2025 baseball season, all eyes are on an unexpected yet promising player: sophomore pitcher Mason Hayes. Once overlooked in the Buckeyes’ deep roster, Hayes is now gaining attention as a potential frontline starter, poised to make a significant impact on the team’s success.
Recruited as a three-star prospect out of Cincinnati, Hayes showed flashes of brilliance during his high school career but struggled to find consistency during his freshman season. Limited to bullpen appearances in 2024, he posted a modest 4.85 ERA across 20 innings. However, a stellar offseason has transformed Hayes into a potential breakout star.
“Mason came back this year with a fire we haven’t seen before,” said Ohio State pitching coach Jeremy Lopez. “His velocity is up, his command is sharper, and he’s added a devastating slider to his arsenal.”
Hayes spent the summer refining his mechanics in the Cape Cod Baseball League, where he earned All-Star honors after recording a 1.97 ERA and striking out 42 batters in 34 innings. Scouts praised his improved fastball, which now touches 95 mph, and his ability to mix pitches effectively against both right- and left-handed hitters.
Teammates have also taken notice. “He’s a completely different pitcher now,” said senior catcher Ryan Brooks. “The confidence he has on the mound is infectious, and it’s going to be huge for us this season.”
With Ohio State aiming to reclaim its place among the Big Ten’s elite, Hayes’ emergence couldn’t come at a better time. The Buckeyes are set to open their season in February, and if Hayes can deliver on his newfound potential, he could be the X-factor that propels the team to postseason success.
The countdown to 2025 is on, and Mason Hayes is ready to take center stage.
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