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Jabe Boroff Leads Troy to Historic MCWS Berth as Underdog Story Unfolds

ESPN General •
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Troy University is making history at the Men's College World Series, becoming the first team ever to reach Omaha after losing 30 games in a season. The Trojans fell 7-5 to No. 16 West Virginia in their opening game, but the real story is Jabe Boroff's remarkable transformation.

Boroff entered the NCAA tournament hitting just .125 on May 9, then exploded for six home runs to earn the nickname 'Jabe Ruth.' He went 1-for-3 with a walk and RBI in Game 1 against West Virginia, but his journey from junior college standout to Division I star captures attention. Five former Enterprise State teammates drove 16 hours to witness his achievement.

The outfielder's slump lasted three months at Troy before he asked equipment managers for a new bat, claiming his old one had no hits. Though the equipment staff jokes about the bat change, Boroff credits his mental approach and faith for the turnaround. He hit 10-for-20 with four homers and 12 RBIs in the Gainesville Regional, earning Most Outstanding Player honors.

Troy faces Ole Miss in an elimination game Sunday at 2 p.m. ET on ESPN. Coach Samuel 'Bubba' Frichter marveled at seeing his former player on baseball's biggest stage, calling it gratifying proof that hard work pays off regardless of the level.