Blueboys Enter 2026 Season Picked Tied for Fourth in MWC

JACKSONVILLE, Ill.- The Midwest Conference coaches selected Illinois College to finish tied for fourth in the preseason poll, and the Blueboys enter the spring with plenty of momentum after a 22-win season a year ago. With a strong returning core and a large group of newcomers, IC looks like a team built to compete right away.

Offensively, Illinois College brings back key contributors in Nolan Decker, Tyler Barker, and Ketch Mills. Barker hit .328 last season with 35 RBI, while Mills and Decker combined for 61 hits and 40 runs scored. As a team, IC hit .300 and stole 60 bases, and the coaching staff believes increased athleticism across the roster will translate to improved play on the base paths and in the field.

On the mound, Dawson Vernier returns after a strong freshman campaign where he emerged as a reliable option in the starting rotation. Connor Akstulewicz provides experience and flexibility out of the bullpen and can handle multiple roles across a weekend. The staff is also excited about the development of Parker Phillis and Anthony Buonaura, who have transitioned into pitcher only roles, along with a freshman group of arms that brings depth and upside.

Roster turnover is a major storyline across the conference this season with the end of the extra COVID eligibility year. Many teams lost experienced contributors, creating an opportunity for new contenders to emerge. Illinois College added 26 new players, including a transfer class that could see immediate impact from several newcomers.

Beloit enters the season as the team to beat, but the Midwest Conference race appears wide open. Illinois College will be tested early by a challenging non-conference schedule before opening league play against Beloit, giving the Blueboys a chance to prepare for what should be a highly competitive season.

Illinois College opens the 2026 season at home on February 21st at 11:00 a.m. against UW Stout at Joe Brooks Field.

MWC Baseball Preseason Coaches' Poll Results
1. Beloit College (6 first-place votes) - 48 points
2. Grinnell College (1) - 40 points
3. Monmouth College - 29 points
T4. Illinois College (1) - 28 points
T4. Lawrence University - 28 points
6. Ripon College - 25 points
T7. Cornell College - 13 points
T7. Knox College - 13 points