Harrogate, TN — The Lincoln Memorial University baseball team will open the 2026 season on Friday, January 30, hosting Cedarville University in a doubleheader to begin a three-game series. Game one is scheduled for noon on Friday, with game two to follow at approximately 3:00 p.m. The series finale is slated for Saturday but remains subject to change due to the possibility of inclement weather.
Lincoln Memorial returns a strong core of offensive contributors from last season, led by junior infielder Brooks Hagedorn, who posted a .308 batting average with 11 doubles, two triples, and 27 RBIs in 2025. Senior outfielder Alex Kowalski also returns after starting all 46 games last season, hitting .276 with 10 doubles, four triples, five home runs, and 40 RBIs.
Outfielder CJ Dugan appeared in 44 games a season ago, batting .254 with 12 stolen bases, while Kevin Fernandez adds veteran experience after driving in 14 runs and slugging four home runs in limited action. Catcher Joey LaMattina returns behind the plate after starting 20 games and reaching base at a .386 clip.
Caleb Jordan and Ford Hallock provide additional depth after both hit above .300 in their respective roles, with Jordan batting .340 in 19 games and Hallock hitting .314 in 11 starts.
On the mound, the Railsplitters bring back several key arms. Sophomore right-hander Easton Barnett emerged as one of Lincoln Memorial's most consistent pitchers last season, posting a 2.89 ERA in 19 appearances while striking out 19 batters in 28 innings. Senior Dylan Maire logged over 31 innings with 27 strikeouts, while Payton Armour recorded three saves in 21 appearances out of the bullpen.
Senior Eli Edds returns after making 12 starts last year, compiling 69 strikeouts in 64.2 innings, and Jack Santi also provides starting experience with 10 appearances and nine starts in 2025. Merrick Graham, Bradric Helton, and AJ Hootman add further depth to a large and versatile pitching staff.
With a blend of returning production and a deep incoming freshman class, Lincoln Memorial looks to set the tone early in the season against a competitive Cedarville squad as the Railsplitters begin their 2026 campaign. Fans are encouraged to follow Lincoln Memorial Athletics on all socials, or at LMURailsplitters.com, for updates regarding game times and weather-related changes.
