K-State just landed a flame-thrower — 97 MPH and headed to Manhattan

Wildcats adds RHP Billy Eich from transfer portal
2024 NCAA Division I Baseball Regional - Fayetteville
2024 NCAA Division I Baseball Regional - Fayetteville | Wesley Hitt/GettyImages

Kansas State is adding a big arm to its pitching staff.

Right-hander Billy Eich, who spent last season at Division II Barry University, announced on social media that he’s transferring to K-State for next season. Eich brings serious heat, with his fastball reportedly reaching 97 mph in live game action.

Eich threw 75 innings in 2025, finishing with a 4.78 ERA and 74 strikeouts. Opponents hit just .230 against him, and his combination of velocity and swing-and-miss stuff could make him a key piece for the Wildcats right away.

Kansas State is coming off a 32–26 season and made its second straight NCAA Tournament appearance under head coach Phil Hughes.

The Wildcats dropped their opener to UTSA before bouncing back with a win over Houston Christian, then were eliminated by Texas in the Austin Regional.

It was the program’s sixth all-time NCAA appearance and first back-to-back postseason trips since 2010–11.

The Wildcats have already seen some roster turnover. Slugger Seth Dardar, who led the team in multiple offensive categories last season, entered the transfer portal and announced he’s heading to LSU, returning to his home state.

With Eich now on board, K-State adds a high-upside arm to its staff as the Wildcats look to build on recent postseason success.