Bold statement: WVU’s 2026 pitching plans just took a surprising turn, and the ripple effects could reshape the Mountaineers’ season. Chase Meyer, a right-handed ace who led the team in wins last year and earned a preseason All-Big 12 nod, is no longer with West Virginia and has been removed from the roster. Coach Steve Sabins confirmed the development, saying Meyer is “no longer part of the program” as the team moves forward.
Sabins emphasized his responsibility to position players for long-term success, noting that he won’t discuss private details of individual decisions. He offered a respectful send-off, wishing Meyer well and acknowledging the talent and potential the pitcher carries for future opportunities in baseball.
In terms of on-field numbers, Meyer had pitched 3.1 innings this season without giving up a hit, posting a 2.70 ERA with one win, five strikeouts, three walks, and three hit batsmen. The lone run allowed came on a sacrifice fly after two wild pitches. Last season, Meyer went 9-2 with a save and a 3.96 ERA across 48 innings, recording 63 strikeouts, 38 walks, and 12 hit batters. He also logged eight wins in relief and started three times in 22 appearances.
Before the season began, Meyer was projected as the Friday starter for a nationally ranked Mountaineers squad. His status shifted after he suffered a fractured finger around Thanksgiving, sidelining him for several weeks while he worked to regain arm strength.
Meyer debuted in relief in the season’s second game, delivering an unusual sequence that began with an 0-2 count and featured a curveball called for a strikeout. His subsequent outing against Liberty lasted two innings, during which he walked two, hit two, and threw two wild pitches while allowing a run without a hit. In the most recent series, he was with the team but did not appear in the eight-reliever group used across three games against Kennesaw State.
Beyond Meyer, the pitching staff is navigating other issues. Sophomore JJ Glasscock suffered a non-baseball injury during the Liberty series and is considered unlikely to be readily available. Glasscock has one strikeout in one scoreless inning in the season opener against Georgia Southern and remains under medical evaluation as doctors determine the next steps.
Left-hander Ben McDougal, another bullpen standout, has pitched only once this season and is dealing with a flexor strain. McDougal debuted last season with 19 relief appearances, posting a 1-1 record with two saves and a 3.63 ERA. Sabins noted that recent imaging has shown positive signs, and McDougal is focused on a return to game action as soon as possible. He recently threw three times on the road, engaging in light throwing sessions to monitor progress, with the team optimistic about his recovery trajectory.
