2025 SEASON (LMU)
Zach Bender anchored the Lions’ starting rotation in 2025, consistently giving LMU quality innings and keeping the team in games. Over 29.1 innings, he struck out 26 batters while limiting opponents to 28 hits and posting a 3.99 ERA. Bender had several standout starts, including a 5.2-inning outing against Pacific where he allowed just three runs, a four-strikeout performance at San Francisco, and multiple scoreless outings against Portland. He showcased excellent command, recording several games with no walks while limiting hard contact. One of his most memorable moments came in the WCC Tournament against San Diego, where he closed out the final four outs to send the Lions into the winner’s bracket. His ability to log multiple innings per start and deliver in key situations made him a cornerstone of the pitching staff throughout the season.
HIGH SCHOOL
Bender attended Palo Verde High School, graduating in May 2024. Competing in the 5A Mountain League under head coach Dustin Romero, he earned varsity letters as a sophomore, junior, and senior. As a senior, Bender was named All-League, All-City, and All-State, highlighted by a complete-game, one-hit shutout with 11 strikeouts in the state championship against Bishop Manogue High School. He helped lead his team to the 2024 Nevada 5A State Championship.
CLUB BASEBALL
Bender competed with several elite travel programs throughout his youth and high school career. He played for Nevada Panthers/Nevada Athletics from 2019 through 2021, the Atlanta Blue Jays during the summers of 2022 and 2023, the Dodgers Elite Scout Team in the falls of 2022 and 2023, Ohio Warhawks in the summer of 2024, and Team Nevada in June 2023. He posted numerous standout performances, including a perfect game with the Atlanta Blue Jays in 2022 and a no-hitter with the Nevada Panthers in 2020. His efforts earned him recognition on multiple All-Tournament teams and a Perfect Game Pre-season All-American West Region Second Team selection in 2024.
PERSONAL
Bender is the son of Kimberly Dawn Bender (LMU, 1991-95) and Anthony Bender (UCLA, 1987-92, baseball alum). He has one brother, Brayden.
WHY LMU?
Bender chose LMU because he connected with the campus and surrounding area, appreciated the coaches’ approach, and felt the program would provide the perfect environment to continue growing as both a player and a student.
