Understanding College Baseball’s New Era: What Families Need to Know About NIL, the Transfer Portal, and Long-Term Player Development
College baseball is undergoing significant changes, from the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals to the ever-evolving transfer portal. These developments are shifting the recruiting landscape, and for families trying to navigate these waters, it’s crucial to understand how the game is changing—and what it means for the future. One person who has a unique perspective on these shifts is Victor Rojas, former MLB broadcaster and current assistant coach at OUAZ (Ottawa University Arizona), where he works alongside head coach Tim Montez.
With decades of experience in professional baseball and now coaching at the college level, Victor has seen firsthand how these changes are affecting players, parents, and coaches alike.
The Power of NIL Deals and Financial Disparities
One of the biggest shifts in college sports has been the introduction of NIL deals, which allow college athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness. While this new opportunity is exciting for many, Rojas emphasizes that it creates a financial divide between the Power Five conferences and mid-major programs. Schools with large athletic budgets are better equipped to attract talent with lucrative deals, while smaller programs may struggle to compete financially.
“There are probably about five or six schools in certain conferences that can handle the financial requirements,” Victor explains. “Other schools are going to have to decide, are we going forward with baseball? Or do we cut other sports to be able to take care of baseball?” This financial divide could reshape the landscape of college baseball, leaving mid-major programs to fight for survival while Power Five schools continue to dominate.
The Rise of the Transfer Portal and Increased Competition
The transfer portal has also revolutionized the way players move between schools, adding another layer of complexity to college baseball. The ability to transfer more freely has increased competition, not just among high school recruits but also with players transferring from other colleges. As Rojas points out, it’s no longer just about securing the best freshman class—coaches now have to contend with an influx of experienced players who are ready to make an immediate impact.
“With everything equal across the board, now it’s going to be a coaching staff really winning someone over on their development, on their facilities. All that stuff’s going to matter now,” Victor says. For players, this means that simply securing a spot on a college roster is no longer the finish line—it’s about choosing a program that will help you develop long-term, whether that’s through superior coaching or state-of-the-art training facilities.
Development Over Scholarships: The Key to Success
While NIL deals and the transfer portal are making headlines, Victor Rojas emphasizes the importance of long-term development over short-term financial gains. For most players, the end goal is professional baseball, and the college experience is a crucial stepping stone in that journey. Rojas warns against choosing a school based solely on scholarship size or immediate playing time. Instead, he advises families to focus on the program’s ability to develop their athlete’s skills.
“His final stop, he wants to be a major leaguer one day,” Victor explains. “All this stuff is just a stepping stone to get there.”
The reality is that college baseball is a long process, and not every player will start their freshman year. Rojas himself suggests that redshirting, or sitting out a year to develop, might be a better option than rushing into a program where a player won’t see much playing time. “I’d rather my son redshirt than get five or ten at-bats or five innings on the mound,” Rojas says, underscoring the importance of getting meaningful reps and game experience.
The Role of Coaches in Shaping Success
For coaches, the new landscape of NIL and the transfer portal means there’s more pressure than ever to offer something beyond just financial incentives. According to Rojas, good recruiters will be the ones who can not only attract top talent but also develop it. Parents and players need to ask important questions during the recruiting process: Does the coach have a proven track record of developing players? How many freshmen are playing significant roles? What are the training facilities like?
“Coaches will have to win players over through development opportunities and facilities, as money is becoming more equalized across many schools,” says Rojas. This means players should look beyond the offer letter and evaluate whether the program can genuinely help them grow as athletes and people.
Patience and Perspective for Families
The college baseball journey is not a sprint. For parents and players, Rojas offers one final piece of advice: Be patient. It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of recruitment, but the most successful players are the ones who take the time to find the right fit. “Slow things down as a parent and just let it come to you,” Victor says. The key is to stay focused on development and long-term growth, rather than getting swept up in the immediate allure of scholarships or NIL deals.
Whether you’re aiming for a Power Five program, a mid-major, or a JUCO, the goal is the same: to become the best player you can be. With patience, dedication, and a commitment to finding the right program, players can thrive in this evolving landscape of college baseball.
With Victor Rojas now coaching at OUAZ alongside head coach Tim Montez, his insights are more valuable than ever for families navigating the complex world of college baseball. The decisions you make now—whether it’s about NIL deals, the transfer portal, or choosing the right program—can have lasting effects on your development and career. Stay informed, stay patient, and keep your eyes on the bigger picture.
The MLB Postseason Begins: What Players and Parents Should Watch For
As the MLB postseason kicks off tonight, the intensity of playoff baseball offers a unique learning experience for aspiring players and their families. For parents, this is a chance to understand what it takes to compete at the highest level, while young athletes can study the finer details of the game. From observing how players manage high-pressure moments to how coaches make split-second decisions, the postseason delivers valuable insights into the mental and physical toughness required to succeed.
Watch for key matchups, particularly how pitchers adjust their strategies to face the same batters multiple times in a game and how hitters adapt to elite-level pitching. Pay attention to the mental fortitude on display—players staying calm under pressure, handling adversity, and bouncing back from setbacks. These are essential skills for any young athlete, and the postseason is a masterclass in how professionals elevate their game when it matters most. For both players and parents, this is an opportunity to gain perspective on the level of preparation and dedication needed to perform at a championship level.
So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let the playoff drama unfold—because there’s nothing quite like October baseball! Whether you’re a parent cheering from the couch or a player taking mental notes, the lessons from these games could be what pushes you to the next level. And who knows? Maybe someday, you’ll be the one stepping up to the plate in a big playoff moment! Let’s play ball!
Why You Should Download the Baseball Bluebook and Build a Profile
In this rapidly evolving world of college baseball, staying connected and visible is more critical than ever. The Baseball Bluebook app offers a comprehensive platform for players, coaches, and recruiters to stay up to date and network across the sport. Whether you’re a player looking to get noticed by college programs, a coach managing your team’s information, or a vendor showcasing your products, building a profile on the Bluebook ensures you’re part of the most trusted baseball directory. The app gives players a platform to highlight their skills, showcase their accomplishments, and connect directly with recruiters. For coaches, it provides up-to-date contact information and a way to verify and promote your program. Download the Baseball Bluebook app today and make sure you’re part of the baseball community’s most trusted and complete resource.