Texas baseball added its first transfer pitcher of the offseason Tuesday in Middle Tennessee State’s Gavin King.
The 6-foot-7, 210-pound right-hander struck out 59 batters in 42 innings in 2026 — although he also posted a 6.00 ERA and issued 32 walks in 19 appearances. Before that, King spent his freshman season at Volunteer State Community College, pitching four times.
Despite his flaws, Texas is betting on his traits and pitching coach Max Weiner’s ability to smooth out the rough edges of his game.
Texas right-handed pitcher Sam Cozart won the Stopper of the Year Award this past season, but will move into the starting rotation in 2027, according to head coach Jim Schlossnagle. Right-hander Thomas Burns and left-hander Haiden Leffew could also depart for the MLB, leaving Texas’ bullpen lacking quality depth.
Aside from King, Texas added Texas Tech infielder Linkin Garcia, St. Mary’s catcher Ian Armstrong, Long Beach State outfielder Trevor Goldenetz and Kent State outfielder Sawyer Solitaria through the portal.