The Texas Longhorns bullpen is having a blast—and it's a key part of their identity. As the team chases its first NCAA title in 21 years, the relievers are proving that fun and performance can go hand in hand.
At the heart of the good vibes is freshman pitcher Brett Crossland, who transforms when he steps on the mound. "I'm a sweetheart off the mound, but on the mound, I'm a killer," he says. Off the field, he's also known as "DJ Tterb"—his first name spelled backward. Despite being just 19 years old, Crossland has become the bullpen's unofficial DJ, curating playlists tailored to each pitcher's warm-up. Dylan Volantis gets calm, smooth tunes; Ruger Riojas prefers heavy metal; and Haiden Leffew gets country music before his call to the mound.
"As a DJ, he's a 10 out of 10," says freshman right-hander Brody Walls, who enjoys personalized remixes that play off his jersey number 67. "He knows how to get us right."
But the fun doesn't stop with the music. This year's bullpen has developed a lively, almost electric atmosphere—a contrast to the more business-like approach of previous seasons. Veteran reliever Luke Harrison credits assistant coach Max Weiner for encouraging the team to "lead the league in fun." That philosophy has turned the bullpen into a hub of energy, where relievers dance, hype each other up, and create a spirited environment during games.
Of course, the ultimate measure of success will come in the postseason. But for now, the Longhorns' bullpen is proving that chemistry and camaraderie can be just as important as fastballs and sliders. Whether it's DJ Tterb spinning the perfect track or teammates rallying around each other, this group is showing that having fun on the diamond can lead to winning results.
