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New head coach Ty McDevitt earns first career win in Gophers baseball season-opener

Minnesota cruised to an easy win on Friday night in Houston.

Tony Liebert

Gophers head coach Ty McDevitt
Gophers head coach Ty McDevitt / Picture via: University of Minnesota Athletics

For the first time in 43 years, Gophers baseball opened their regular season with a head coach not named John Anderson. First-year head coach Ty McDevitt had the program ready for the moment, as they cruised to an easy 14-3 victory over Houston on Friday night.

Minnesota quickly jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the top of the first inning and never looked back. Junior catcher Weber Neels had a big night, going 2-5 at the plate with 4 RBIs and a two-run home run in the fourth inning. Junior Kris Hokenson, sophomore Charlie Sutherland and freshman Jameson Martin all added two RBIs each.

Sophomore Texas transfer RHP Cole Selvig started the game on the mound. He pitched six innings, allowing six hits and three runs, while striking out six Houston batters. Junior Joe Sperry closed the game out with three scoreless innings and four strikeouts.

Minnesota will look ahead to the second of three games on the road against Houston on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. After this weekend's series, they will travel to Round Rock, Tex. next week and take on Oklahoma, Virginia and Oregon State at the Karbach Round Rock Classic.

Last season was the Gophers' first over .500 since 2019 and they haven't made the NCAA Tournament since 2018. McDevitt has started his Minnesota tenure on the right foot.

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Tony Liebert
TONY LIEBERT

Tony Liebert is particularly known for his coverage of the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers, though he also contributes to coverage of the Minnesota Vikings, Timberwolves and Twins. His writing style is noted for providing in-depth analysis and insights, making him a go-to source for fans looking for comprehensive coverage of Minnesota sports.