Thu Jul 17 08:00:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Despite losing key players to the MLB draft, the Arizona Wildcats baseball team is poised for a strong 2026 season. Returning starters Owen Kramkowski and Smith Bailey anchor a pitching staff bolstered by transfer portal additions Luc Fladda and Patrick Morris. Stopper of the Year Tony Pluta will return to the bullpen. While the lineup has more question marks, transfer and returning players are expected to fill the gaps. Coach Chip Hale, fresh off a contract extension, is optimistic after the team’s College World Series appearance, focusing on developing the new roster and building on past successes.
**News Article:**
**Wildcats Reload: Arizona Baseball Aims to Break Cycle, Contend in 2026**
TUCSON, AZ – After a College World Series appearance in 2025, the Arizona Wildcats baseball team is looking to defy recent trends and contend again next season, despite losing key players to the MLB Draft. Historically, the Wildcats have only reached the CWS every four years it has been contested, but Coach Chip Hale is optimistic about the team’s potential to break that pattern.
The pitching staff is shaping up to be a strength, with weekend starters Owen Kramkowski and Smith Bailey returning after breakout seasons. They’ll be joined by Tulane transfer Luc Fladda, a strike-throwing left-hander, and Western Kentucky transfer Patrick Morris, who excels against left-handed hitters. Stopper of the Year Tony Pluta will anchor the bullpen, supported by Garrett Hicks and newcomers like Evan Brandt, Sam Round, and Jack Lafflam.
The lineup presents more questions, particularly with the departure of key infielders. Transfers Beau Sylvester and Tyler Bickers, along with returnees Mathis Meurant, Andrew Cain, and Easton Breyfogle, will be looked upon to step up and fill the voids.
Hale, recently signed to a contract extension through 2030, is focused on developing the new roster and building on the lessons learned from the 2025 season. Despite the two-and-out showing at Omaha, Hale expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments and believes the Wildcats can contend for a title again in 2026.
First Piper 