On June 16, 2025, Gage Wood etched his name into college baseball history with a performance that left fans and scouts alike in awe. The Arkansas Razorbacks pitcher delivered the first no-hitter in the Men’s College World Series (MCWS) in 65 years, leading his team to a 3-0 victory over Murray State. This remarkable feat not only secured Arkansas’ advancement in the tournament but also propelled Wood into the spotlight ahead of the MLB Draft.
A Dominant Performance
Wood’s outing was nothing short of spectacular. The 21-year-old right-hander struck out 19 batters over nine innings, setting a new MCWS record for strikeouts in a single game. He allowed no walks and surrendered only one base runner—a hit-by-pitch in the eighth inning—while throwing 119 pitches, 83 of which were strikes. His final pitch, a 97-mph fastball, sealed the no-hitter and was met with a standing ovation from the Omaha crowd.
A Near-Perfect Game
The only blemish on Wood’s record was the hit-by-pitch in the eighth inning. However, a successful challenge by Arkansas in the ninth inning negated a potential second hit-by-pitch, preserving the no-hitter. Wood struck out the final batter, Jonathan Hogart, to complete the historic achievement.
A Family Moment
After the game, Wood shared a heartfelt moment with his father, who was in the stands. He handed his father the game ball, a gesture that underscored the significance of the achievement and the support of his family throughout his baseball journey.
Rising Draft Stock
Wood’s performance has significantly boosted his prospects in the upcoming MLB Draft. Scouts are now projecting him as a first-round pick, with his dominant showing in Omaha serving as a testament to his potential at the professional level.
Legacy in the Making
With this no-hitter, Wood joins an elite group of pitchers in MCWS history. He became only the third player to achieve this feat, following in the footsteps of Jim Ehrler of Texas in 1950 and Jim Wixson of Oklahoma State in 1960. As Arkansas continues its pursuit of a national title, Wood’s historic performance will be remembered as a defining moment in Razorback baseball lore.