USF Bulls Baseball Aims for Postseason Contention in 2024

Head coach Mitch Hannahs believes the program can become an NCAA Regional contender.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The University of South Florida (USF) baseball team, under the leadership of head coach Mitch Hannahs, is aiming for continued improvement and a potential run at an American Conference championship this season. Hannahs, who guided the Bulls to a 31-25 finish in his first year after arriving from Indiana State, believes the program can eventually become a contender for NCAA Regional bids and ultimately reach the College World Series.

Why it matters

Last season marked a significant step forward for the Bulls, ending a streak of three consecutive losing seasons. This year, the team returns a core group of position players and has bolstered its pitching staff, suggesting the program is poised for further progress under Hannahs' leadership.

The details

Hannahs emphasized the importance of pitching depth, stating the team is now better equipped to handle variables like weather conditions and matchups against opposing pitchers. Key pitchers expected to contribute include Edwin Alicea, Easton Storey, and Kaden Smith, alongside returning arms James Hill, Jorge DeCardenas, and Landon Yorek. The Bulls likewise return six position players who were regular starters last season: Rafael Betancourt, Lance Trippel, Bradke Lohry, Matt Rose, Carter Murphy, and Ryan Pruitt. Newcomers Juan Correa, Nathan Earley, and Jevin Relaford have also made an impression.

  • Last season, USF finished with a 31-25 record, marking the first time in four years the team did not have a losing season.
  • The Bulls open their season at home against the Illinois Fighting Illini on Friday, February 13.

The players

Mitch Hannahs

The head coach of the USF baseball team who guided the Bulls to a 31-25 finish in his first year after arriving from Indiana State.

Edwin Alicea

A key pitcher expected to contribute to the Bulls' pitching staff this season.

Rafael Betancourt

One of six position players who were regular starters for the Bulls last season and are returning this year.

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What they’re saying

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The takeaway

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