For Grand Valley State University’s baseball team, which surged through one of the best starts in program history, March was defined by dominant pitching performances. At the center of that success on the mound was senior right-handed pitcher Collin Bradley.

Bradley’s recognition came after a near-flawless stretch throughout March, during which he established himself as one of the most reliable arms not only in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC), but in the NCAA. In three starts during the month, Bradley did not allow a single earned run.

Across those outings against the Missouri University of Science and Technology, Maryville University and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Bradley consistently gave the Lakers a chance to win. His efficiency and ability to limit baserunners helped control the tempo of each game, even while facing quality nonconference competition on the road.

“I’d say right now what’s working is just throwing strikes and limiting walks,” Bradley said.

He also credited the defense behind him.

“Another big thing is our defense,” Bradley said. “We have an incredible infield and outfield behind me, and that makes pitching a lot easier.”

That approach has been central to what head coach Jordan Keur describes as GVSU’s identity. Throughout the season, Keur has emphasized limiting free bases and trusting the defense, a philosophy Bradley has executed at a high level.

“He gives you a chance to win every single game,” Keur said. “That’s everything you want out of a Friday guy.”

Bradley’s performances this month reflected that reliability. At Maryville, he delivered a complete-game shutout, allowing just three hits over nine innings. He followed that performance with seven scoreless innings against Embry-Riddle, continuing his stretch of dominance and showcasing his ability to control opposing lineups deep into games.

His first outing of the month at Missouri S&T further demonstrated his composure, as he navigated traffic on the bases while still preventing runs. Across all three starts, Bradley consistently avoided allowing a run.

He extended that dominant stretch against Purdue Northwest, tossing eight scoreless innings while allowing just three hits and striking out six. The outing pushed his scoreless streak to 24.2 innings.

A major factor in that success has been his ability to attack hitters early in counts. Bradley has leaned on his curveball as a primary weapon, using it to establish control and dictate at-bats.

“I’d say my curveball is probably my go-to pitch,” Bradley said. “I also added a slider this year, and that’s helped a lot with my fastball.”

That expanded arsenal has allowed Bradley to keep hitters guessing. With multiple options in two-strike counts, he has been able to generate weak contact or strikeouts when needed.

While his March numbers stand out, Bradley’s current form is rooted in a longer journey back to the mound. Three years ago, he suffered a partially torn UCL that required Tommy John surgery, sidelining him for an entire season. His first year back presented additional challenges as he worked to regain command and consistency.

“It was a pretty rough season,” Bradley said. “I had trouble filling up the strike zone and couldn’t really find a good release point.”

Through a demanding rehabilitation process and gradual improvement, Bradley rebuilt both his mechanics and confidence. By the middle of last season, that progress became evident. Now fully healthy, he has returned to peak form at a critical point in his senior year.

“At this point, I feel like I’m back to 100%,” Bradley said.

That return has not only elevated his individual performance but also strengthened the Lakers’ pitching staff as a whole. As a senior, Bradley has taken on a leadership role, helping set the tone for the rotation.

Beyond statistics, his impact reflects the team-first mentality that has defined GVSU’s season.

“I just want to push our team to a World Series,” Bradley said. “I really think we have a special group this year.”

With a strong record, balanced roster and a pitching staff anchored by Bradley, GVSU has positioned itself as a legitimate contender heading into conference play. Bradley was also named GLIAC Pitcher of the Week for the second time this season during the first week of March.

As the season progresses, Bradley’s March may ultimately be remembered as the stretch that helped set the tone for a team with its sights set on a deep postseason run.