West Virginia University’s baseball program has officially issued a statement addressing the topic of additional scholarships and its ongoing efforts to strengthen both athletic and academic support for student-athletes. The announcement reflects WVU’s commitment to advancing its baseball program’s competitive edge while maintaining a strong emphasis on player development, education, and team depth.
In the statement, head coach Randy Mazey and athletic director Wren Baker jointly reaffirmed the university’s dedication to exploring every possible avenue to enhance scholarship opportunities within NCAA guidelines. The move comes as the college baseball landscape continues to evolve, with programs nationwide adjusting to new financial aid structures, transfer portal dynamics, and NIL opportunities.
“West Virginia University remains fully committed to providing our baseball student-athletes with the resources they need to succeed both on and off the field,” the statement read. “Our focus is on fostering a program that not only competes for championships but also represents the values of WVU with integrity and excellence.”
The announcement highlights an ongoing discussion within college baseball about scholarship limits. Currently, NCAA Division I baseball programs are allowed to offer 11.7 scholarships, which must be divided among an entire roster that often exceeds 30 players. This has long been a point of debate among coaches and administrators who argue that the system restricts their ability to reward deserving athletes and build balanced rosters.
WVU’s administration has expressed strong support for national conversations that could lead to expanded scholarship allowances or improved financial aid flexibility. According to the statement, the program’s leadership believes that increasing scholarships would help level the playing field, particularly for programs competing in challenging conferences like the Big 12, where depth and consistency are critical for postseason success.
Coach Mazey, who has led the Mountaineers to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances during his tenure, emphasized that expanded scholarship support would directly benefit the players who have worked tirelessly to represent WVU at the highest level. “Our players give everything they have to this program,” Mazey said. “They deserve every opportunity to receive the support they need to thrive in the classroom, in competition, and in life.”
Athletic Director Wren Baker echoed those sentiments, stressing that the university’s leadership remains proactive in its approach to adapting to changing NCAA regulations and national standards. “We want WVU to be at the forefront of positive change,” Baker said. “By investing in our student-athletes and advocating for expanded scholarship opportunities, we’re ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of Mountaineer baseball.”
The statement concluded with a message of optimism and unity, reinforcing the program’s vision of building a foundation for future success through strategic investments, community support, and athlete empowerment.
“Our mission is simple — to provide our student-athletes with every tool they need to reach their potential,” the release stated. “With the backing of our university, fans, and the Mountaineer family, we are confident that the best days of WVU baseball are still ahead.”
With this latest announcement, West Virginia baseball continues to position itself as a program deeply committed to progress, fairness, and championship-level ambition.