Excitement Builds for the 2026 Mines Baseball Season
As baseball season kicks off in January, the Colorado School of Mines baseball team is set to embark on an exciting journey. The Orediggers will commence their 2026 campaign against Cal State San Marcos in sunny California. This matchup marks the fourth encounter since 2022 between these two teams, and fans are anticipating a thrilling competition.
Game Schedule
The opening series includes three games over the weekend:
- Friday, 2 p.m. (PT): Single nine-inning game
- Saturday, 11 a.m. (PT): Doubleheader
- Sunday, 12 p.m. (PT): Series finale
Fans can follow the action through free live stats and access live video with a FLO College subscription.
Live Coverage Details
All four games will feature free live statistics available at Mines Athletics. Subscribers can watch live video via FLO College starting at $19.99 monthly. The service covers home and conference games on the RMAC Network, which has transitioned to a pay-per-view model for all events.
RMAC Network Subscription Options
- Monthly Subscription: $25
- Annual Subscription: $130
- Single-Game Pass: $10 (valid for 24 hours)
For assistance, fans may contact Hudl Support or email the RMAC directly at rmac@rmacsports.org.
Weather Outlook
The weather in San Marcos is expected to be ideal for baseball. Fans can look forward to sunny skies and highs in the mid-80s on Friday and Saturday, with a slight dip to 75 degrees on Sunday. Wind speeds will remain under 10 MPH, making it a perfect weekend for outdoor sports. Just don’t forget your sunscreen!
California Connections
Among the Oredigger roster, eight players hail from California. Notable names include Alex Freund and Brandon Schaff. Schaff’s hometown of Aliso Viejo is just under an hour from Cal State San Marcos, creating a homecoming feel. This geographical connection adds another layer of excitement to the series.
Season Preview: The Returners and New Faces
The 2026 Mines baseball roster boasts 19 returning players, including key contributors like Evan Bilter and Luke Parker. Bilter finished the 2025 season with impressive stats, including a .391 batting average.
In addition to the returning veterans, Head Coach Robby Bales added 19 newcomers to the lineup. This includes 14 freshmen and several transfers, all bringing fresh talent to the field.
Preseason Accolades and Expectations
Bilter has already earned recognition as Preseason All-RMAC for first base and received honorable mention from the National Collegiate Baseball Writers’ Association. Furthermore, Mines was ranked sixth in the RMAC Preseason Coaches’ Poll, showcasing growing expectations for the season ahead.
2026 RMAC Preseason Coaches’ Poll
- Colorado Mesa
- CSU Pueblo
- MSU Denver
- UCCS
- Regis
- Mines
Last Season Recap
Mines finished 13-34, battling through hurdles in the 2025 season. Highlights included individual achievements such as Canon Humphreys earning a Second-Team All-RMAC nod. As the team recharges with fresh faces and veterans, optimism pervades the air for an improved performance this year.
Professional Prospects
The Mines baseball program has seen its players transition into professional baseball, with alumni like Walter Pennington making MLB debuts. As these Orediggers aim for the big leagues, their current performance on the collegiate stage will be instrumental in shaping futures.
Scouting the Opponent: Cal State San Marcos
The Cougars from Cal State San Marcos are coming off a 25-23 season, with high hopes for 2026. They finished fifth in the CCAA’s preseason coaches’ poll and will rely on returning players and a roster filled with transfers as they seek to improve on last season.
Series History
The Orediggers have enjoyed success against the Cougars in recent years, winning six of their last eight matchups. The last meeting resulted in a close 9-7 victory for Mines. With a competitive series ahead, both teams will look to dominate on the field.
Looking Ahead
The following weekend, Mines will host a non-conference game against Regis, marking their home opener. Fans are encouraged to stay engaged with Mines baseball and follow updates on social media through @OrediggersBSB.
As excitement builds for the season opener, all eyes will be on the Orediggers as they strive for a successful 2026 campaign. For further updates, players, and stats, visit Mines Athletics.
