The South Carolina Gamecocks baseball team is gearing up for the 2025 season with significant changes and renewed aspirations. Under the leadership of new head coach Paul Mainieri, formerly of LSU, the team aims to rebound from a 37-25 record in 2024 that concluded in the regional round of the NCAA Tournament.
Paul Mainieri, renowned for his successful tenure at LSU, was appointed as the Gamecocks’ head coach in June 2024. His arrival has infused the program with optimism, as he brings a wealth of experience and a championship pedigree.
The team began small group workouts on January 13, 2025, with full team practices scheduled to commence on January 24. These preparations are crucial as the Gamecocks integrate new players and strategies under Mainieri’s guidance.
South Carolina’s season kicks off on February 14, 2025, with a three-game series against Sacred Heart at Founders Park. This opening series will set the tone for the season and provide an early look at the team’s dynamics.
Notably, the Gamecocks are absent from D1Baseball’s preseason Top 25 rankings, marking the first time since 2022 that they enter the season unranked. This omission could serve as motivation for the team to exceed expectations and reestablish their prominence in college baseball.
Key Players to Watch:
• Ethan Petry (Junior, OF/IF): Returning with a .306 batting average and 21 home runs from the previous season, Petry is expected to be a pivotal player in the Gamecocks’ lineup.
• Blake Jackson (Senior, OF): With a .293 batting average and 5 home runs, Jackson’s experience and consistency will be valuable assets.
• Kennedy Jones (Senior, OF): Jones contributed a .289 batting average and 9 home runs last season, adding depth to the outfield.
The Gamecocks face a challenging schedule, including matchups against several SEC teams ranked in the preseason Top 25. Key series to watch include clashes with Texas A&M, LSU, and Tennessee, all of which are positioned in the top five.
As the 2025 season approaches, South Carolina aims to leverage its new leadership and returning talent to make a significant impact in collegiate baseball. The combination of experienced players and fresh coaching perspectives sets the stage for a compelling season ahead.