UNCW baseball looking to remain consistent in 2026

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — UNCW baseball has been a model of consistency for some time, especially as of late.

Over the last three seasons, the Seahawks have won two CAA titles and finished as the runner-up once.

Head Coach Randy Hood is entering his seventh full season leading the way. Alongside him is a roster full of players that have been a part of their recent success, which Hood says is an invaluable asset.

(Photo: Colton Emswiler/WWAY)

“There’s not a substitute for experience,” Hood said. “Having those guys back, having them on the field, having them in the dugout, having them in the locker room. You can’t measure that. I’m excited. I’m looking forward to the leadership that we have. I’m also looking forward to the youth that we have that are very good. We got some really talented young players.”

Hood says he believes his team is so well-rounded that they need to see game action before determining what their strengths are going to be.

(Photo: Colton Emswiler/WWAY)

Shortstop Kevin Jones says the biggest difference in 2026 compared to prior teams is how close they are as a group.

“Overall, I would say having fun,” Jones said. “We’re all guys that are connected. We’re having a great time. It’s been great, a blast. I’d say our connection and going to work every day, getting better. We just know what’s needed to come out of us and what the program is and all the past years, the history and what we need to do.”

UNCW opens their season on Friday at home against Maryland in their first game of a weekend series.