Valparaiso University’s baseball team is concluding the 2026 season with a three‑game series against Southern Illinois, set for May 14, 15 and 16 at Itchy Jones Stadium in Carbondale, Illinois. The matchup gives the Beacons a chance to influence the Salukis’ tournament seeding as they head into the postseason.
The Final Stretch
The recent Senior Day ceremony highlighted the contributions of fifteen seniors, marking a bittersweet transition as the roster blends youthful talent with seasoned experience. A walk‑off hit by Eli Riley on Friday, the first since April 6, 2025, sparked a 2‑11 record in one‑run games and underscored the team’s resilience.
Connor Lockwood will take the mound for the final time in his Valpo career on Friday, closing a chapter that includes a rare immaculate inning on February 28 at Alabama State and a career‑high 200 strikeouts. His 6.22 strikeout‑to‑walk ratio ranks second in the Missouri Valley Conference and 16th nationally, while his 0.96 walks per nine innings sit first in the league and fifth across the country.
Coach Brian Schmack’s leadership has been defined by steady improvement, and his staff’s return of the top six pitchers from last season’s ERA rankings adds depth to a pitching staff that has already turned a historic triple play on April 2. The program’s recent surge is also reflected in individual accolades, from Javin Gauthier’s .667/.765/.1083 slash line to Cal Schembra’s freshman‑of‑the‑week honor.
The Beacons have caught the eye of national outlets, with Brayden Pleau’s sprawling catch earning a spot on SportsCenter’s Top 10 plays and Thomas Cooper appearing at No. 53 in D1Baseball’s weekly hitters ranking. Riley’s 25 stolen‑base attempts rank third nationally, and the team’s overall win total is set to surpass last year’s record.
Looking ahead, Valpo will welcome eighteen newcomers to complement the fifteen returning players, ensuring continuity in a rotation that includes the same six pitchers who posted the lowest ERAs a year ago. The blend of fresh arms and veteran bats promises to keep the Beacons competitive as they close out the season.