A Season Defined by Firsts
The 2026 Cal Poly Mustangs concluded a remarkable campaign in the Super Regional, falling two victories short of the College World Series. After securing a Big West co‑championship, capturing the conference tournament and claiming the school's inaugural NCAA Division I regional title, the team finished the year with a 39‑24 record, coming within one win of a 40‑win season.
The Mustangs rode a surge of 21 wins in 27 games after a mid‑April series at Oregon State, a stretch that cemented their status as a national contender. Their offensive firepower was on display throughout the postseason, culminating in a seven‑hit attack in the final Super Regional game.
Key contributors included Ryan Tayman, who earned Big West Co‑Field Player of the Year honors and tied the school's single‑season home run record, and Alejandro Garza, who broke the career hits mark with 254. Nick Bonn set a new program record with 17 saves, while Carson Turnquist, Nate Castellon and Dylan Kordic each added pivotal hits during the tournament run.
The championship game against West Virginia ended 17‑1 in favor of the Mountaineers, who exploded for runs in every inning from the second through the seventh. West Virginia's 19‑hit onslaught featured two home runs and nine stolen bases, while their pitching staff limited Cal Poly to a .239 team batting average.
Despite the final loss, the Mustangs left the field with their heads held high, knowing they had delivered a season that fans, families and alumni will remember for years. The experience will shape the program's future as it looks to build on a foundation of first‑time achievements and a culture of relentless competition.