With a relatively new team mixed with young talent, transfers and a new head coach, Gophers baseball looks to their upperclassmen for leadership. 

The Gophers lean on the upperclassmen to set the tone at practice and provide optimism throughout both wins and losses. 

Junior Weber Neels recently delivered an impressive performance in a tough matchup against the University of Southern California, hitting a home run and driving in three RBI. Neels said that keeping composure and staying positive is crucial as a leader for his teammates. 

“Staying the course, trusting the work and to keep showing up is the best way to keep positive,” Neels said.

Senior Josh Fitzgerald also helped lead the team against the Trojans, hitting two home runs with two RBI.

After a nine-game winning streak, the Gophers are focused on continuing their momentum. To maintain their focus, the upperclassmen play a key role in keeping their teammates’ mindset sharp during practice every day.

“Such a great group of guys that help a ton, and help a lot by trusting what I’ve done and putting it out there,“ freshman Jameson Martin said.

With a team of new faces and unknown capabilities, pressure can easily arise.

“I had conversations with some of the guys and just reminded them you got recruited here for a reason,” Neels said.

Neels said he tells the team that they have the ability to play at the Division I level, trying to give them reassurance to help them trust themselves.

The team culture at practice is an important piece of the puzzle for the Gophers as they attempt to keep the energy high as the season winds down.

Head coach Ty McDevitt emphasized the importance of practicing with the same intensity and intention used in a game.

“When we get into team practice, we aren’t slowing down for anybody,” McDevitt said. 

The Gophers have embraced the new energy within the team culture, driven by McDevitt and the leadership of the upperclassmen.

“Ty brings in a new environment,” Martin said. “He expects a ton out of us but is a great leader, has all of our backs and is always energetic.”

In his first year as head coach, McDevitt brought in 10 transfers, giving the upperclassmen a chance to reinforce the core values and expectations of Gopher baseball to the new additions.

“You have to create new relationships and meet new faces, and learn what makes them tick,” Neels said. 

Without the ability to play year-round, the Gophers have to find different ways to get the work done and help the new players with the adjustment. 

“Minnesota baseball is unique. When guys want to come to Minnesota, they have to realize it’s different, and the team we are trying to create is someone who can compete with anybody across the nation, no matter how cold it is,” Neels said.

As the weather warms up, Neels said the team’s mood continues to lift, furthering the energy and team culture the Gophers strive for every day. 

The Gophers will celebrate their 13 seniors at Siebert Field on May 11 for their final Big Ten home series of the season.