UCLA Bruins: A Legacy at the College World Series

The UCLA Bruins baseball team is making its first College World Series appearance since 2013. After a 12-year wait, they are back in the main event, pursuing their second national title. Roch Cholowsky, a standout player with Omaha on his mind since arriving in Westwood, played a crucial role in clinching UCLA's spot in the Men's College World Series.

Cholowsky's Clutch Performance

Cholowsky's journey to the College World Series was marked by both anticipation and pressure. A projected No. 1 overall MLB draft pick in 2026 by some analysts, Cholowsky had an uncharacteristically quiet performance in the NCAA tournament leading up to the Super Regional.Despite this, he maintained a .333 batting average, showcasing his consistent skill.

In the decisive game against Texas San Antonio, Cholowsky delivered a crucial RBI single in the fifth inning, securing UCLA's 7-0 victory and a coveted spot in Omaha. This marked the Bruins' sixth berth to Omaha and first since their championship-winning year in 2013.

A Team Effort

While Cholowsky's performance was pivotal, the Bruins' success was a result of contributions from various players. Toussaint Bythewood, a junior outfielder who had limited playing time throughout the season, delivered a crucial two-out RBI single. UCLA added insurance runs in the eighth and ninth innings.The Bruins' pitching staff was equally impressive, with Landon Stump starting the game and the relief pitchers shutting down UTSA's offense. Chris Grothues, Cal Randall, August Souza, and Easton Hawk combined to no-hit the Roadrunners over the final five innings.

Coach Savage's Perspective

Coach John Savage, in his 12th and final year of his contract extension, expressed his excitement about returning to Omaha and the challenge ahead. He emphasized the difficulty of reaching the College World Series and the importance of enjoying the moment and the journey.

Savage also highlighted the significance of their recent experience in Omaha during the Big Ten tournament, giving the Bruins a taste of the College World Series environment. Cholowsky echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the value of familiarity with the ballpark and surroundings.

UCLA's College World Series History

The UCLA Bruins have a rich history at the College World Series, marked by both early exits and memorable triumphs.

1969: First Appearance

UCLA made its first appearance in Omaha in 1969. Chris Chambliss, who later became a prominent MLB player, led the team with a .340 batting average and 15 home runs. The team finished in 7th place.

1997: Return to Omaha

Twenty-eight years later, in 1997, the Bruins returned to Omaha led by future MLB players Troy Glaus and Eric Byrnes. However, they were once again knocked out in two games.

2010: First CWS Win

The 2010 College World Series marked a turning point for the Bruins, as they secured their first-ever CWS win by defeating Florida. They went on to beat TCU twice to reach the CWS finals, where they ultimately fell to South Carolina, finishing as national runners-up. Cody Regis, Beau Amaral, and Trevor Bauer were named to the All-College World Series Team.

2012: A Mixed Bag

In 2012, UCLA defeated Stony Brook but suffered losses to Arizona and Florida State. Arizona went on to win the CWS that year.

2013: National Champions

The 2013 College World Series was a historic moment for UCLA, as they clinched their first NCAA baseball national championship. The Bruins' pitching staff dominated the tournament, allowing no more than one run in any of their five games. They defeated LSU, NC State, North Carolina, and Mississippi State en route to their title. Notably, they won the College World Series without hitting a single home run.

UCLA Softball

The UCLA Bruins also boast a storied history in softball, with multiple national championships and legendary coaches.

Early Years

The UCLA Bruins softball team was founded in 1975, with Sharon Backus as the coach. Backus led the team to its first AIAW national softball championship in 1978.

Dynasty Years

From 1988 to 1990, the Bruins won three consecutive NCAA championships, solidifying their status as a softball powerhouse. Backus's success drew comparisons to UCLA's legendary basketball coach John Wooden.

Coaching Changes

After Backus's retirement in 1997, Sue Enquist took over as head coach. Enquist, a former UCLA player, continued the program's success.

Recent Success

Currently, the UCLA Bruins are under the leadership of Coach Kelly Inouye-Perez, who has led the team to two national championships in 2010 and 2019.

The 2025 College World Series

As the UCLA Bruins embark on their 2025 College World Series journey, they are among five teams with at least one national championship. They aim to join the ranks of programs like Oregon State, Arizona and LSU. This year's College World Series includes teams with varying levels of experience, from UCLA's six appearances to Murray State's debut.

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