Murray State vs UCLA Prediction: 2025 College World Series
Last updated June 12, 2025
The stage is set in Omaha as Murray State takes on UCLA in what promises to be an interesting College World Series showdown on Saturday. In this Murray State vs UCLA prediction, I dive deep into each side’s strengths, recent form, and everything you need to know before making your college baseball betting picks for this contest between a Cinderella story and an established powerhouse program.
Our Murray State vs UCLA Pick
Pick: UCLA -2.5 (-115)
Confidence: ★★★★☆
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Game Snapshot
Matchup: Murray State vs UCLA
Date & Time: Saturday, June 14, 2025, 2:00 p.m. ET
Stadium: Charles Schwab Field, Omaha, NE
Broadcast: ESPN
| Odds Type | Line |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | UCLA –280 / Murray State +210 |
| Runline | UCLA –2.5 (-115) / Murray State +2.5 (-115) |
| Total | 9.5 |
Key Storylines
Pitching form
Murray State has enjoyed an offensive bonanza of late, but will need to shore up its pitching to keep pace with UCLA’s arms. Nic Schutte (8–4, 4.85 ERA), the Racers’ workhorse, was touched up in Super Regionals and struggled in his start against Duke. That is concerning, given UCLA’s lineup depth. On the other side, UCLA likely sends Michael Barnett (12–1) or Landon Stump (6–1) to the mound, both of whom have had strong seasons for the Bruins.
Bullpen usage
Murray State's bullpen has had plenty of time to recover after being called into extensive action during the regionals and Super Regionals. UCLA's bullpen, though less heavily used in the postseason, won't have much of a rest advantage here. The Bruins will, however, likely have a quality advantage in this department that contributes to their status as favorites.
Recent team streaks
- Murray State is riding historic momentum, with a 44–15 record, its first-ever CWS appearance, and wins in nine of its last 11 outings.
- UCLA stormed through the Los Angeles Regional and Super Regional, going 5-0 behind a balanced offense and elite starting pitching.
Betting Trends & H2H
- Last 5 games: Murray State is 3-2 overall, but has won in both of their elimination games. UCLA is a perfect 5–0 in postseason play.
- Murray State had to win their way into Omaha away from home, while UCLA played all of their tournament games on their home field, which could come into play in this neutral-site matchup.
Murray State vs UCLA Model Projection
Score Projection: Murray State 4 – UCLA 7
Win Probability: UCLA 70%, Murray State 30%
Final Thoughts
Both teams bring plenty of momentum into their College World Series opener. Murray State’s offense and Cinderella run are captivating, yet their pitching depth may falter against UCLA’s elite staff. The Bruins arrive with postseason poise, championship pedigree, and reliable bullpen arms. The smart money lands on UCLA taking the opener, doing so by enough to cover a big runline number.
