UCLA Baseball has established itself as a powerhouse on and off the diamond, producing MLB legends and earning a reputation for academic excellence.
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• ‍Gerrit Cole: The 2011 MLB Draft’s #1 overall pick and a perennial Cy Young contender.‍
• Chase Utley: Six-time MLB All-Star and one of the greatest second basemen of his generation.‍
• Brandon Crawford: World Series champion and multiple-time Gold Glove winner.
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Beyond the field, UCLA consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States, combining elite academics with a storied baseball tradition.
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Why UCLA Baseball Stands Out
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• Conference: Big Ten – NCAA Division I
• Head Coach: John Savage, who has led the team since 2005 and is known for developing pitchers who thrive at the next level.
• Postseason History: 25 NCAA Tournament appearances and five College World Series trips, including a National Championship in 2013.
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UCLA consistently plays against some of the best teams in the country, and the program’s competitive environment helps prepare athletes for the challenges of professional baseball.

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2024 Highlights

UCLA finished the season at 19-33 overall, including a 9–21 mark in conference play. Despite a challenging season, the Bruins showcased resilience and determination, achieving notable victories that underscored their competitive spirit.
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• Rivalry Triumph: On March 24, 2024, UCLA secured a 6-3 victory over USC at Jackie Robinson Stadium, clinching the series against their crosstown rivals. Key contributions came from Malakhi Knight, Mulivai Levu, and AJ Salgado, each recording two RBIs.
• Walk-Off Victory: On April 6, 2024, the Bruins edged out Oregon with a 7-6 win in extra innings. Pinch hitter Quintt Landis earned a bases-loaded walk-off walk in the 10th inning, sealing the game.
• Series Sweep: In mid-May, UCLA swept Stanford, highlighted by a 10-8 win on May 18, 2024. Carson Yates hit his first home run of the season, contributing to the Bruins' offensive surge.
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These victories exemplify the team's perseverance and capability to compete at a high level, even amidst a rebuilding phase.

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Jackie Robinson Stadium: The Bruins’ Home
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• Opened: 1981 (dedicated to the legendary Jackie Robinson, a UCLA alumnus).
• Seating Capacity: 1,820 (intimate, yet electric).
• Recent Upgrades: Enhanced lighting, improved seating, and new fan-friendly amenities to create an optimal game-day experience.
• Field Quality: One of the most meticulously maintained playing surfaces in college baseball, ensuring top-tier conditions for athletes.
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Jackie Robinson Stadium is more than just a venue; it’s a place where tradition meets opportunity. The stadium’s location in Los Angeles also puts players in proximity to professional scouts and high-profile competition.

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State-of-the-Art Training Facilities

UCLA is known for its cutting-edge approach to player development, and its facilities reflect that:
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• Gifford Hitting Facility: A 10,500-square-foot indoor training center that allows players to practice year-round with advanced analytics tools like Rapsodo and TrackMan.
• Pitching Labs: Equipped with high-speed cameras and motion analysis systems to help pitchers fine-tune their mechanics and maximize velocity.
• Strength and Conditioning Center: Designed to build strength, enhance recovery, and prevent injuries, giving players a competitive edge.
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These resources not only improve performance but also prepare players for the rigorous demands of professional baseball.

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Bruins in the MLB

If you’re looking for a program that knows how to send players to the pros, UCLA is it. Some of their most notable alumni include:
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• Gerrit Cole: The first overall pick in the 2011 MLB Draft and a perennial Cy Young contender.
• Chase Utley: Six-time MLB All-Star and one of the best second basemen of his generation.
• Brandon Crawford: Multiple-time Gold Glove winner and World Series champion.
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With over 90 players drafted into the MLB, UCLA’s track record for developing professional talent is undeniable.

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Academics at UCLA
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• Ranking: UCLA is consistently ranked as one of the top public universities in the United States.
• Popular Majors: Business economics, biology, psychology, and engineering.
• Support for Student-Athletes: Dedicated advisors, tutoring services, and academic resources ensure players succeed off the field.
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Balancing athletics and academics at UCLA isn’t just a possibility—it’s a priority. The program’s focus on holistic development ensures players are prepared for life beyond baseball.

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Commitments As of This Writing:

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2026 Recruiting Class:

• Infielders: 1
• Catcher: 0
• Outfielders: 0
• Right-Handed Pitchers (RHP): 0
• Left-Handed Pitchers (LHP): 1
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2027 Recruiting Class:

• No commitments yet.

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UCLA's recruiting is wide open in the 2026 and 2027 classes.

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Why UCLA Should Be on Your Radar‍

UCLA isn’t just about playing baseball—it’s about building a future. Between the world-class academics, the top-notch coaching staff, and the program’s proven ability to send players to the MLB, it’s a dream destination for student-athletes with big aspirations.

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Parents, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the recruiting process, let Alex and Premier Athletes help you navigate this journey with confidence. From finding the right fit to preparing your son for success, we’re here to make the process smoother and more rewarding.
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To your son's success.