Dax Whitney: Oregon State's Rising Star Shines in College World Series

Before Dax Whitney stepped onto the mound in Omaha, he had already envisioned the moment countless times. Through mental exercises and visualization sessions guided by Oregon State's director of mental skills, Zak Taylor, Whitney prepared himself for the pinnacle of college baseball. His mental rehearsals included the roar of the crowd, the pressure of the game, and the execution of each pitch. When the moment arrived, Whitney was ready. Facing 25,000 fans at Charles Schwab Field, he dominated the Louisville Cardinals over 5.1 innings, striking out nine and allowing no earned runs. His performance led Oregon State to a thrilling 4–3 walk-off victory. Whitney's success is rooted in his unique pitching style, which combines a compact arm stroke with a slightly crossfire delivery. His fastball, reaching the mid-90s, and his devastating 12-6 curveball proved unstoppable. The freshman's composure under pressure was evident, as he handled high-stakes situations with the maturity of a seasoned veteran. Despite being one of the most sought-after high school pitchers in the 2024 draft class, Whitney chose college baseball over a lucrative MLB signing bonus. His decision to join Oregon State was driven by a deep belief in the program and a desire to fulfill his college baseball dreams without compromise. Whitney's standout performance in the College World Series not only solidified his place as a rising star in college baseball but also highlighted his mental toughness and unwavering dedication. With two more years at Oregon State, the future looks bright for this talented young pitcher.