LAS VEGAS (UNLVRebels.com) – The UNLV baseball team begins its 2026 season Friday night at Earl E. Wilson Stadium with a four-game series against the Austin Peay Governors. The first pitch is scheduled for 6:05 pm.
A Challenging Start for the Rebels
The series against Austin Peay, a team from the Atlantic Sun Conference, will continue with a doubleheader on Saturday, beginning at 1:05 pm and tentatively concluding at 3:05 pm. The final game is set for Sunday at 12:05 pm. This marks the first-ever meeting between UNLV and Austin Peay.
UNLV was predicted to finish sixth in the 2026 Mountain West Conference season, according to a poll of the league’s nine head coaches. Junior pitcher Carson Lane was named to the MW’s Preseason All-Conference Team.
New Faces and Returning Players
The Rebels will feature a mix of returning players, including Carson Lane, Cooper Sheff, and Gunnar Myro, alongside 27 newcomers, including pitchers Parker Dillhoff and Felix Ong. Though, catcher Drew Charney and outfielder Kevin Smith will miss the 2026 season due to injuries.
UNLV concluded the 2023 season with a 31-23 record and a berth in the Credit Union 1 Mountain West Championship, their 21st tournament appearance overall. Austin Peay, receiving votes in the NCBWA Preseason Poll, was selected as a preseason favorite in the Atlantic Sun Conference after posting a 45-14 record in 2025.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 season will consist of 55 regular season games for UNLV, including 32 home contests. The team will face five opponents that participated in last season’s NCAA Tournament. The outcome of this opening series could set the tone for the Rebels’ season, especially as they navigate a schedule featuring teams with strong recent performances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the first game of the series begin?
The first game of the series between UNLV and Austin Peay begins at 6:05 pm on Friday, February 13, 2026.
Where will the games be played?
All four games of the series will be played at Earl E. Wilson Stadium in Las Vegas.
What was Austin Peay’s record last year?
Austin Peay recorded a 45-14 overall record and a 26-4 conference play record last year.
Will the outcome of this series impact UNLV’s season trajectory?
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