The Penn State baseball team is making waves in the 2025 Big Ten Baseball Tournament, capturing the attention of Nittany Lion fans with their gritty performances in Omaha, Nebraska. As of May 24, 2025, the ninth-seeded Nittany Lions have advanced to the semifinals, setting up a highly anticipated rematch against the Nebraska Cornhuskers. This follows a dramatic 2-1 upset victory over fourth-seeded USC, showcasing the team’s resilience and knack for shining in high-stakes moments. With a postseason run that’s turning heads, Penn State baseball is proving they’re a force to be reckoned with as they chase an NCAA Tournament berth.
A Breakthrough Season for Penn State Baseball
This season has been a remarkable turnaround for Penn State baseball under second-year head coach Mike Gambino. The team’s 33 wins mark their best performance since 2011, trailing only the 2000 squad’s 45 victories in program history. Their journey to the Big Ten semifinals began with a 5-3 win over No. 5 seed Washington on May 21, powered by a three-run sixth inning. Key contributors like Bryce Molinaro, who delivered a two-run sacrifice fly, and Ryan Weingartner, with a solo home run, set the tone for an aggressive, opportunistic offense.
The defining moment came against USC on May 22, when Nate Voss blasted a solo home run in the ninth inning to secure a 2-1 victory. Reliever Chase Renner sealed the deal with a scoreless bottom half, sending Penn State to the semifinals for the second consecutive year. This win eliminated USC from contention and highlighted the Nittany Lions’ ability to thrive under pressure, a trait Gambino emphasizes with his “playoff baseball” mantra.
| Key Players in the Big Ten Tournament | |——————————-|————————————| | Nate Voss | Solo HR in the ninth vs. USC | | Bryce Molinaro | Two-run sacrifice fly vs. Washington | | Ryan Weingartner | Solo HR vs. Washington | | Chase Renner | Scoreless ninth to clinch USC win |
Penn State Baseball’s Standout Stars
The Nittany Lions’ success stems from a talented roster, with several players earning All-Big Ten honors. Junior outfielder Paxton Kling, a Central Pennsylvania native and MLB Draft prospect, secured first-team All-Big Ten and All-Defensive Team recognition. His leadership and dynamic play have been pivotal, both at the plate and in the field. Redshirt sophomore Jack Porter earned second-team All-Big Ten honors as a designated hitter, showcasing his consistency. Pitcher David DeSanto also shone, tying for eighth in program history with eight wins this season.
Kling’s journey back to his home state after transferring has been a storyline to watch. He’s embraced his role as a leader, connecting with fans and boosting the program’s profile. Alongside teammates like Molinaro, Joe and Jesse Jaconski, and Cole Wagner, Penn State baseball is building a strong core of in-state talent, fueling optimism for a deep postseason run.
Looking Ahead: The Nebraska Challenge
Today’s semifinal clash with Nebraska is a chance for Penn State baseball to avenge last year’s loss in the Big Ten championship game. The Cornhuskers face a tough schedule, playing twice on May 24, which could give the Nittany Lions an edge. Gambino’s squad is battle-tested, with a pitching staff that’s delivered in clutch moments and an offense that capitalizes on opportunities. A win could propel them to the championship game on May 25 and bolster their case for an NCAA Tournament bid, a goal that’s tantalizingly close.
The team’s mindset, as Gambino noted, is all about embracing the intensity of playoff baseball. Their preparation through fall and winter has built a squad that doesn’t flinch in big moments. Fans are buzzing with excitement, and social media posts reflect the growing support for this underdog story. The Nittany Lions are not just competing—they’re inspiring a fanbase eager for postseason glory.
Why Penn State Baseball Matters
This run is more than just wins and losses; it’s a testament to the program’s resurgence. Penn State baseball has transformed from a middle-of-the-pack team to a legitimate contender, thanks to Gambino’s vision and a roster brimming with talent. Their ability to upset higher-seeded teams like USC and compete with powerhouses like Nebraska shows they belong on the national stage. For fans, it’s a chance to rally behind a team that embodies grit, heart, and the pride of Happy Valley.
As the Nittany Lions prepare for today’s semifinal, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A victory could cement their legacy as one of Penn State’s most memorable teams and secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament, a milestone not reached since 2000. With players like Kling and Voss stepping up, the future looks bright for Penn State baseball.
Get Involved with the Nittany Lions
Don’t miss out on the excitement! Follow Penn State baseball’s journey in the Big Ten Tournament and beyond. Stream the games on the Fox Sports app or catch highlights on Big Ten Network’s YouTube channel. Share your support on social media and join the roar of Nittany Lion fans cheering for a championship. Will you be watching as Penn State takes on Nebraska? Let’s show the team some love and keep the momentum going!