No. 20/25 Oklahoma Baseball delivered an impressive weekend at the 2025 Round Rock Classic, sweeping all three opponents and securing the tournament championship. The Sooners showcased dominant pitching and clutch hitting, highlighted by several standout individual performances that propelled them to victory over Minnesota, No. 7 Oregon State, and No. 2 Virginia.
Kyson Witherspoon’s Career Night
Junior right-hander Kyson Witherspoon turned in a dominant performance in OU’s tournament-opening 3-2 win over Minnesota. Witherspoon struck out a career-high 12 batters while allowing just one run on three hits across seven innings of work. His control was impeccable, walking none and retiring 13 consecutive batters at one point after surrendering a leadoff home run. His efforts earned him a well-deserved spot on the All-Tournament team. This performance solidified his status as one of the top pitchers in college baseball this season.
Kyle Branch’s Offensive Surge
Freshman Kyle Branch was a consistent force at the plate throughout the weekend, driving in key runs in all three games. He recorded an RBI single in the win over Minnesota and delivered a crucial 3-for-4, three-RBI performance in the 8-4 victory over Oregon State. In the championship-clinching win over No. 2 Virginia, Branch went 2-for-5 and scored a key run in the team’s comeback. His offensive production earned him the title of tournament MVP and has made him one of the top players to watch in Oklahoma Baseball.
Malachi Witherspoon Shuts Down Oregon State
Right-hander Malachi Witherspoon played a pivotal role in Oklahoma’s victory over No. 7 Oregon State, picking up his second win of the season. After surrendering a two-run homer in the first inning, he settled in and kept the Beavers off the board for the remainder of his 4.1-inning outing, allowing just three hits and striking out three. His resilience allowed the Sooners to rally and take control of the game. His ability to limit damage makes him a key asset to OU’s pitching staff.
Scott Mudler’s Power and Clutch Hitting
Senior catcher Scott Mudler came up big against Oregon State and Virginia. His two-run home run in the fourth inning against the Beavers put the Sooners ahead for good. He also played a key role in the Virginia matchup, doubling in the fifth to bring OU within one run before later scoring the game-winning run in extra innings. Mudler’s performance earned him a spot on the All-Tournament team and established him as a leader in Oklahoma’s lineup.
Bullpen Brilliance Against Virginia
Oklahoma’s bullpen was nearly flawless in the 12-inning thriller against No. 2 Virginia. After starter Cameron Johnson exited following three innings, six relievers combined to hold the Cavaliers to just one earned run over the next nine innings. Senior Dylan Crooks and freshman Jaden Barfield were particularly impressive, shutting down Virginia across the final four frames. Barfield, in his collegiate debut, earned the win with a scoreless 12th inning. The depth and effectiveness of OU’s bullpen make them a formidable force in college baseball this season.
Walk-Off Heroics from Dawson Willis
Junior Dawson Willis delivered the game-winning moment in the championship game against Virginia. With two runners on in the bottom of the 12th, Willis laid down a bunt and legged out an infield single, forcing a throwing error that allowed the winning run to score. His clutch play sealed OU’s highest-ranked win since 2021 and capped off a remarkable weekend for the Sooners. His ability to execute in high-pressure situations makes him an invaluable asset to Oklahoma’s roster.
Looking Ahead
After their perfect showing in Round Rock, Oklahoma Baseball returns home for a five-game homestand at L. Dale Mitchell Park, beginning Tuesday against Texas Southern. With a 6-0 start to the season, the Sooners look to build on their momentum and continue their strong early-season form. Fans can catch all the action live on SECN+ or secure their tickets at SoonerSports.com/tickets. Stay tuned for more updates on Oklahoma Baseball as they chase championship glory this season!
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