Fall Exhibition Schedule Unveiled
Western Kentucky University’s baseball program, under the direction of Head Coach Marc Rardin, has released its fall exhibition slate, featuring four games spread across October.
The Hilltoppers open the series on October 3 at Nick Denes Field, where they will host Indiana State. The teams split a 2026 three‑game set, with the Hilltoppers taking two of three, setting a competitive tone for the upcoming clash.
Key Matchups to Watch
A week later, on October 10, WKU returns home to face Tennessee Tech. The matchup revisits a March 31 encounter that produced a combined seven‑inning no‑hitter, a performance that remains a highlight of the program’s recent history.
The schedule then shifts to the road, with the Hilltoppers traveling to Jackson, Tennessee, for a contest against Mississippi State on October 18. The game is presented by Yukon Outfitters and hosted by the Jackson Rockabillys, and tickets will go on sale September 3 through the Rockabillys website, the sole official sales channel.
Closing out the fall schedule, WKU will meet Evansville on October 24. The Purple Aces arrive after a 2025 season that culminated in a Conference USA Championship and a NCAA Regional appearance, promising a strong test for the Hilltoppers.
These exhibition games serve more than a warm‑up; they provide a chance for the Hilltoppers to test new strategies, evaluate emerging talent, and build momentum heading into the spring season. Each opponent brings a distinct challenge, from the disciplined play of Tennessee Tech to the SEC pedigree of Mississippi State.