Phoenix, February 12, 2026
Sun Devil Baseball will start its season at Phoenix Municipal Stadium with a series against the University of Omaha, followed by challenges from UConn and St. John’s. This early season action highlights the vibrant sports culture in the Phoenix area. The home games not only showcase athletic talent but also contribute significantly to the local economy by attracting fans and supporting community initiatives, reflecting the ongoing dedication to collegiate sports in the region.
Phoenix, AZ — Sun Devil Baseball is set to ignite the 2026 season at Phoenix Municipal Stadium, hosting a compelling series of home games from February 13 to February 22. This opening stretch marks a significant moment for Arizona State athletics, welcoming the University of Omaha for a three-game series to kick off the season, followed by matchups against UConn and St. John’s. The return of college baseball action underscores the vibrant sports culture and community engagement prevalent in the Valley.
The upcoming games represent more than just athletic contests; they are a testament to the enduring spirit of competition and the economic vitality that premier university programs bring to the Phoenix metropolitan area. With a focus on disciplined preparation and community support, Sun Devil Baseball aims to build on its recent successes, including a noteworthy 2025 season that saw the team achieve 36 wins and secure an NCAA Regional appearance.
Phoenix’s Athletic and Economic Pulse
The commencement of the Sun Devil Baseball season injects a palpable energy into the local landscape, highlighting the significant role that Arizona State athletics plays in the region’s broader economic and cultural fabric. Home games at Phoenix Municipal Stadium draw thousands of fans, creating direct economic benefits through ticket sales, concessions, and local hospitality services. Last season, Sun Devil Baseball recorded an impressive attendance of 119,956, averaging 3,427 spectators per home game, demonstrating a robust fan base and a healthy appetite for college baseball in Phoenix AZ.
This consistent fan engagement fuels a micro-economy around game days, benefiting small businesses and service providers in the vicinity of the stadium. The commitment of local residents and visitors to attending these events underscores a powerful example of community self-reliance and the positive ripple effect of private initiative. Such athletic endeavors not only provide entertainment but also reinforce Phoenix’s reputation as a dynamic sports destination, attracting attention and potential investment to the state.
Community Investment in Collegiate Success
The sustained success of programs like Sun Devil Baseball is a direct reflection of dedicated university leadership, strategic private investment, and unwavering community efforts. Arizona State University’s commitment to athletic excellence is evident in its facilities and coaching staff. Head Coach Willie Bloomquist, now in his fifth year, has been instrumental in shaping the team’s trajectory, emphasizing a culture of perseverance and strategic development.
The focus on cultivating in-state talent is a cornerstone of the program’s philosophy, recognizing that local athletes often thrive when given the opportunity to represent their home state. This approach not only strengthens the team but also fosters a deeper connection with the community, encouraging families and young athletes to support and aspire to join the Sun Devils. Such initiatives are complemented by private donors and booster clubs, whose contributions provide essential resources for training, equipment, and scholarships, embodying the spirit of independent support for collegiate sports.
The Spirit of Competition and Growth
The 2026 season presents a fresh opportunity for the Sun Devils to showcase their competitive spirit within the demanding collegiate baseball landscape. The team was projected to finish fourth in the Big 12, a testament to the league’s competitive balance and ASU’s recognized strength. The challenges of a rigorous schedule, starting with Omaha, then UConn, and St. John’s, offer valuable tests for the squad early in the season.
A key area of focus for the Sun Devils this year is the pitching staff. Following a 2025 season where the team posted a 5.38 ERA, significant efforts have been made to bolster this crucial aspect of the game. Coach Bloomquist has expressed confidence in the revamped pitching roster, with Cole Carlon slated as the opening day starter. On the offensive side, hitting coach Jason Ellison has noted the team’s enhanced dynamism, suggesting a balanced approach that combines contact hitting with power, a strategy vital for navigating varied pitching styles and securing wins. This emphasis on continuous improvement and strategic adaptation reflects a commitment to responsible growth and the pursuit of excellence.
Building on Past Achievements
The 2025 season provided a strong foundation, with Arizona State winning 23 games against Power Four opponents, placing them fifth nationally in this category. This performance underscores the team’s capability to compete at the highest level and serves as a motivator for the current campaign. The transition into a new season brings both anticipation and the challenge of building upon prior successes while addressing areas for improvement. The collective effort from players, coaches, and support staff exemplifies the initiative required to achieve sustained competitive advantage in college baseball.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Success
As Sun Devil Baseball embarks on its 2026 journey, the focus remains on not only achieving on-field victories but also contributing positively to the broader community. The ethos of hard work, discipline, and teamwork fostered within Arizona State athletics extends beyond the playing field, influencing student-athletes to become responsible citizens and future leaders. The continuous investment in robust athletic programs, supported by private donations and local partnerships, ensures that these opportunities for personal and collective development persist.
The commitment to excellence in college baseball in Phoenix AZ serves as an inspiring example of how dedicated individuals and community backing can elevate a program. This season’s early home games offer a prime opportunity for the Sun Devils to demonstrate their progress and reinforce the positive impact of collegiate sports on both individual athletes and the greater Arizona community.
The upcoming Sun Devil Baseball season is poised to be an exciting chapter for Arizona State athletics and the Phoenix community. With the opening series against Omaha followed by matchups against UConn and St. John’s, fans have ample opportunities to witness competitive college baseball. These events highlight the tangible economic benefits and the intangible community spirit that flourish when local sports programs are embraced. We encourage all residents and sports enthusiasts to actively support Sun Devil Baseball and experience firsthand the thrill of collegiate competition at Phoenix Municipal Stadium. Your engagement strengthens our community and celebrates the dedication of these student-athletes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Sun Devil Baseball begin its 2026 season?
A: Sun Devil Baseball begins its 2026 season on Friday, February 13, 2026.
Q: Who will Sun Devil Baseball play in its opening series?
A: Sun Devil Baseball will play a three-game series against the University of Omaha to open its 2026 season.
Q: Where are the Sun Devil Baseball home games played?
A: All Sun Devil Baseball home games are played at Phoenix Municipal Stadium.
Q: How did Sun Devil Baseball perform in the 2025 season?
A: In the 2025 season, Sun Devil Baseball finished with a 36-24 record and made the NCAA Regionals for the first time since 2021.
Q: What was the average home game attendance for Sun Devil Baseball last season?
A: Last season, Sun Devil Baseball drew an average attendance of 3,427 people per home game, with a total attendance of 119,956.
Q: Who is the head coach for Sun Devil Baseball?
A: Willie Bloomquist is the head coach for Sun Devil Baseball, entering his fifth year.
Q: How can I watch Sun Devil Baseball games this week?
A: All Sun Devil Baseball games this week will be streamed on ESPN+. Friday’s contest vs. Omaha and Friday’s contest vs. St. John’s will also be available on KDUS AM 1060. Saturday and Sunday games vs. Omaha will also be available on Blaze Radio.
Sun Devil Baseball Upcoming Schedule: February 13 – 22, 2026
| Date | Opponent | Time (MST) | Location | Broadcast |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Friday, Feb. 13 | vs. University of Omaha | 6:35 p.m. | Phoenix Municipal Stadium | ESPN+, KDUS AM 1060 |
| Saturday, Feb. 14 | vs. University of Omaha | 1:05 p.m. | Phoenix Municipal Stadium | ESPN+, Blaze Radio |
| Sunday, Feb. 15 | vs. University of Omaha | 1:05 p.m. | Phoenix Municipal Stadium | ESPN+, Blaze Radio |
| Tuesday, Feb. 17 | vs. UConn | 6:35 p.m. | Phoenix Municipal Stadium | ESPN+ |
| Friday, Feb. 20 | vs. St. John’s | 6:35 p.m. | Phoenix Municipal Stadium | ESPN+, KDUS AM 1060 |
| Saturday, Feb. 21 | vs. St. John’s | 1:05 p.m. | Phoenix Municipal Stadium | ESPN+ |
| Sunday, Feb. 22 | vs. St. John’s | 1:05 p.m. | Phoenix Municipal Stadium | ESPN+ |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
