Murray State's Dylan Zentko Ranked Among Top College Relievers

Northview alum excelled on the mound during Racers' CWS run

Mar. 29, 2026 at 9:32am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the various angles and movements of a college baseball pitcher's windup and delivery, rendered in bold, overlapping geometric shapes and vibrant colors.Murray State's Dylan Zentko emerges as one of college baseball's top relief pitchers after a standout season that propelled the Racers to the College World Series.Murray Today

Dylan Zentko, a former standout at Northview High School, has been recognized as one of the top relief pitchers in college baseball after his standout performance for Murray State University during their run to the College World Series last summer.

Why it matters

Zentko's rise to national prominence highlights the talent pipeline from small-town Indiana high schools to major college baseball programs. His success also brings positive attention to Murray State's baseball program and the Racers' deep postseason push.

The details

Zentko, a junior right-handed pitcher, emerged as a dominant force out of the bullpen for Murray State last season. He posted a 1.98 ERA and 11 saves, helping the Racers reach the College World Series for the first time in program history.

  • Zentko played for Northview High School prior to joining Murray State.
  • In the 2025 season, Zentko helped lead Murray State to the College World Series.

The players

Dylan Zentko

A junior right-handed pitcher for Murray State University who emerged as one of the top relief pitchers in college baseball last season.

Murray State University

A public university located in Murray, Kentucky that fields a highly competitive Division I baseball program.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Dylan really stepped up for us in big moments last year. His ability to shut down opposing offenses was a huge reason for our success.”

— Dan McDonnell, Murray State Head Baseball Coach

What’s next

Zentko will look to build on his breakout 2025 season and lead Murray State back to the College World Series in 2026.

The takeaway

Zentko's rise to national prominence as a dominant college relief pitcher demonstrates the talent that can come out of small-town Indiana high school programs and the potential for mid-major baseball powers like Murray State to compete with the biggest names in the sport.