TRANSFER IMPACT: WVU Bolsters Lineup with Power-Hitting Catcher John Lemm from the Portal
West Virginia University baseball made a significant offseason splash by landing former University of Central Florida catcher John Lemm from the NCAA transfer portal. The addition of Lemm not only fills a key roster need behind the plate but also injects serious power into the Mountaineers’ batting order for the upcoming season.
Lemm, a 6-foot-1, 215-pound backstop known for his heavy bat and defensive presence, arrives in Morgantown after a breakout sophomore campaign with the UCF Knights. He slashed an impressive .289/.382/.545 with 12 home runs and 41 RBIs in 51 games last season. His ability to drive the ball to all fields and handle high-velocity pitching made him one of the more coveted players in the portal this summer.
WVU head coach Randy Mazey expressed excitement over the acquisition, noting how Lemm fits into the program’s identity. “John brings a level of toughness, maturity, and production that we really value. He’s not just a great hitter — he’s a leader on the field and a calming presence behind the plate,” Mazey said.
Lemm’s arrival comes at a crucial time for the Mountaineers, who are looking to reload after a strong 2024 season that saw them make a run in the NCAA tournament. The catcher position was a top priority for WVU in the transfer portal following the graduation of senior starter Brody Waters. Lemm, with his experience and ability to manage a pitching staff, projects as a Day 1 starter and impact bat in the middle of the order.
“I’m beyond excited to join West Virginia,” Lemm said in a statement. “From the moment I visited campus and talked with the coaching staff, I knew this was the place I wanted to be. The fans, the energy, the culture — it all fits me perfectly. I’m ready to go to work.”
Defensively, Lemm has shown solid tools with a quick release, strong throwing arm, and advanced game-calling instincts. Scouts have praised his ability to frame pitches and block balls in the dirt — skills that will be invaluable in helping WVU’s pitching staff continue to thrive.
The Mountaineers have been aggressive in the transfer portal this offseason, with Lemm being their latest high-profile addition. WVU is aiming to return to the NCAA postseason with even higher ambitions for 2025, and the addition of a proven bat like Lemm’s significantly raises the ceiling.
With the move, West Virginia continues to establish itself as a growing force in the Big 12 and nationally. For John Lemm, it’s a new chapter filled with opportunity — and for the Mountaineers, it’s another piece of the puzzle in their pursuit of a championship.
