Nelson begins his first season with the Ducks and second in professional baseball. The pitcher joins the Ducks after playing with the Oakland Ballers of the Pioneer League in 2024. He appeared in 22 games, posting a 1-2 record with a 3.64 ERA and four saves. In 29.2 innings of work, he struck out 34 batters while conceding 23 hits and 12 walks. The 26-year-old was exceptional during the month of August, totaling a 2.30 ERA in 11 appearances.

The Ohio native played six seasons of collegiate baseball, including two years at St. Bonaventure University in New York (2018-19) and four at the University of Tampa (2020-23). He pitched in 90 games (33 starts), compiling a 20-11 record with a 4.21 ERA, 14 saves and 307 strikeouts to 114 walks over 305.2 innings pitched. The righty was named the UT Male Student-Athlete of the Year in 2022-23 and a First Team All-American in 2022.