Red Raider fans know—The second cup always hits different (COJ)
The second pour
The second installment of Cup of Joe is here, continuing the spotlight on all things Texas Tech, and beyond. Highlights include Texas Tech baseball players receiving the call-up, the Lady Raiders making waves in Germany, updated jersey numbers across Red Raider football, a recap of the MLB Home Run Derby, and everything else that stirred attention this week.
So, consider this your invite to settle in, fill up that favorite mug, and enjoy Part 2 of this week’s COJ—brewed fresh with Red Raider energy and bold takes from across the sports world.
Morning motivational
“Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today.”
Will Rogers
MLB draft delivers for Texas Tech baseball
The 2025 MLB Draft wrapped up this week, and several Texas Tech Red Raiders were selected over the course of the three-day event. The first Red Raider to be drafted was Mac Heuer, taken in the 8th round by the New York Yankees. He was followed by Trendan Parish, who was selected in the 10th round by the Tampa Bay Rays. In the 15th round, Damian Bravo was picked by the San Francisco Giants, and Jack Cebert joined Heuer as a Yankees draftee. Zane Petty became the final Red Raider taken, hearing his name called in the 18th round by the Cleveland Guardians.
With these selections, Texas Tech has now extended its streak to 37 consecutive seasons with at least one player chosen in the MLB Draft. The program’s all-time total now stands at 182 Red Raiders drafted into professional baseball.
While the team has faced its share of challenges in recent seasons, this year’s draft turnout may have exceeded expectations. All selected players have until July 28 to sign with their respective MLB organizations.
Best of luck to all the Red Raiders beginning their pro journeys. And who knows—there’s always a chance a few familiar names could be seen back on the roster in Lubbock next season.
Krista Gerlich leads Lady Raiders into World University Games in Germany
For the first time this year, fans will see the new-look Lady Raider basketball team in action.
Head coach Krista Gerlich leads the program into competition at the World University Games.
This event offers more than just international experience. It’s a chance to build chemistry, evaluate talent, and lay the foundation for the upcoming season.
The Lady Raiders enter summer with a sense of urgency. Last season brought disappointment, including losing a top local recruit and several players to the portal. Coaching staff changes also added to the shake-up. With a revamped roster, these international games offer valuable minutes to a team still learning to gel. Summer exhibitions often get overlooked, but not this one. For Texas Tech, it’s about rhythm, roles, and setting the tone for the season ahead.
Gerlich faces what many view as her most pivotal season in Lubbock. The pressure is rising.
The World University Games won’t define the season, but they could spark momentum. Texas Tech hopes this trip marks a turning point for the Lady Raiders.
Schedule for Lady Raiders
July 18 – Team USA vs. Germany, 8:00 p.m. CEST at Grugahalle Arena, Essen
July 19 – Team USA vs. Chinese Taipei, 5:30 p.m. CEST at Ischelandhalle Arena, Hagen
July 20 – Team USA vs. Poland, 12:00 p.m. CEST at Ischelandhalle Arena, Hagen
Here is more information on the World University Games: https://www.fisu.net/events/32nd-fisu-world-university-games-summer-2/
ICYMI: Krista Gerlich talks all things Texas Tech in this must-see interview.
Red Raiders Get Fresh Jersey Numbers for 2025 Season
2025 Homerun Derby Final
The Home Run Derby continues to be one of the most exciting and fan-favorite events of MLB All-Star Weekend, rivaling the NBA’s iconic dunk contest in energy and entertainment. Year after year, it delivers—and this time was no different.
This year’s Derby was a showcase for the league’s rising stars, as the next generation of MLB power hitters stepped up to the plate and delivered. Among the standout performances, Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh stole the spotlight with a jaw-dropping final-round display.
Raleigh has been swinging a hot bat all season, and that momentum carried right into the Derby. His power was on full display, and the baseball world took notice. From towering blasts to clutch swings, Raleigh made sure fans had something to remember.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just tuning in for the highlights, this year’s Home Run Derby was a reminder of why it remains one of the most electric events in professional sports.
What are your thoughts on the derby-style swing-off to decide the winner?
The 2025 MLB All-Star Game wrapped up with a twist—and while it may not be the go-to solution for regular-season games, it delivered an exciting and memorable finish for an exhibition. The debut of the new home run swing-off format brought fresh energy to the classic event and gave fans plenty to talk about.
For the first time in All-Star Game history, a swing-off was used to determine the winner. Each league sent up three batters, and each hitter was given three swings. The league with the most home runs came away with the win. The result? A high-stakes, fast-paced finale that had viewers on the edge of their seats.
Adding to the drama, Kyle Schwarber delivered a clutch performance that helped seal the victory. His power and poise under pressure made the moment even more unforgettable.
So now the question is: What did you think of this brand-new swing-off format as the All-Star Game’s finishing act?
What’s new and what to look forward to next
I recently checked out Stick on Apple TV, and if you haven’t seen it yet, it’s absolutely worth the watch.
We’re just days away from the highly anticipated release of the new Happy Gilmore, dropping July 25 on Netflix. Also on the horizon is a new SEC football documentary series, premiering August 6. The trailer is packed with highlights, drama, and everything you’d expect—so if you can get past the SEC-heavy angle, it looks like a must-watch for college football fans.
And let’s talk about the latest Mortal Kombat teaser. It just dropped, and while it’s short, it definitely leaves you with more questions than answers. If you’re a fan of the franchise, this one’s worth a look.
Sprite over 7UP because I like my lemon-lime with actual flavor, not sad sparkle.
That wraps up Part 2 of this week’s Cup of Joe, because one round just wasn’t enough for all the Texas Tech buzz. From baseball call-ups to jersey shakeups and Lady Raiders going global, it’s been a week worth pouring over.
Stick around, next week’s brew is already percolating, and if history tells us anything, it’ll be just as bold (and maybe a little unfiltered). Until then, keep the coffee hot and the takes hotter.
