The Villanova Wildcats are flipping the script in 2025 with a blend of seasoned veterans, impact transfers, and a schedule that comes with a side of sunshine. Yes, the Wildcats are starting their season in Puerto Rico. That’s not just any season opener—it’s the inaugural Puerto Rico Challenge, a three-game showcase in paradise.
Let’s talk about that. Villanova will face Rice (Feb. 14), Virginia (Feb. 15), and Michigan (Feb. 16) at Francisco "Paquito" Montaner Stadium, home to the Leones de Ponce of the Puerto Rican Winter League. And here’s the cool part: this is the same field where several Hall of Famers honed their craft, including Roberto Clemente and Hank Aaron. Not bad for a season debut.
But the Wildcats won’t spend the whole season chasing grounders under palm trees. They’ll return home for their opener against St. Peter’s (Feb. 19) and dive into Big East play on April 4 against Georgetown. After an 18-33 campaign in 2024 (8-13 in conference play), head coach Kevin Mulvey’s squad is banking on a mix of proven leaders and fresh faces to change the narrative.
Veteran Leadership: The Steadying Force
When it comes to turning potential into results, look no further than grad transfer Luke McCollough, who returns to anchor the rotation. A transfer from Utah Valley State, McCollough made a statement last year, going 5-4 with 48 strikeouts in 17 appearances (12 starts). The stat that jumps off the page? He held opponents to one run or less in five of those starts. “When Luke’s on, he gives us a chance to win every time,” said Mulvey.
Behind the plate is Jason Neff, a Richmond transfer who tied for second on the team with nine home runs last year while starting 49 of 51 games. Neff isn’t just calling games; he’s setting the tone. “He knows what it takes to lead a team,” Mulvey said. “He’s the guy who does everything right, on and off the field.”
Then there’s reliever Stephen Turzai, the pride of Wexford, Pa. He’s back for his third season after delivering 15 scoreless outings in 2024, while collecting 24 strikeouts over 25 innings.
And don’t forget infielder Michael Whooley, a do-it-all sparkplug who led the team with 32 walks and a .382 on-base percentage last year. Whooley doesn’t just get on base—he was also in the top five on the team in hits, RBIs, doubles, and home runs. That’s a player who can jumpstart any rally.
Fresh Faces: The X-Factor
This year’s roster features 18 new players, including a trio of transfers who could make an immediate impact. Start with Bobby Olsen, a hard-throwing righty with a mid-90s fastball and a devastating curveball. Olsen, who transferred from Nebraska, is a pitcher Mulvey has been eyeing for some time. “We actually recruited him last year,” said Mulvey. “He’s got tremendous stuff and the work ethic to match.”
Then there’s Austin Lemon, an outfielder from Oklahoma State who had a breakout fall. “He was almost impossible to get out,” Mulvey said. Lemon’s speed and bat could provide the Wildcats with an offensive jolt.
And how about Tyler Shaw, a grad transfer from Division III Claremont McKenna? Shaw hit .346 last season with a .433 OBP and brings versatility to the infield, capable of playing shortstop or third base.
And here’s a wild card: Bobby Finn, a junior lefty from St. Bonaventure. Mulvey describes him as “a funky lefty who I think can have some success for us this year.” Sometimes, it’s the funky ones who keep hitters guessing.
The Big Picture
Villanova’s 2025 schedule is a journey—literally and figuratively. Starting in Puerto Rico, making stops in Miami and across the Northeast, and diving headfirst into a challenging Big East slate, this season will test the Wildcats in every way.
But with a seasoned core, intriguing newcomers, and Mulvey at the helm for his ninth season, there’s a sense of cautious optimism in the air. “It’s about building momentum and putting the pieces together,” Mulvey said.
So, will the Wildcats be contenders in the Big East? Will the tropical vibes of Puerto Rico spark a winning start? One thing’s for sure: with this mix of talent and opportunity, Villanova’s 2025 season won’t lack for storylines.