WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University baseball team enters the 2026 season embracing a new chapter, one defined by youth, growth, and long-term development under head coach Eric Burkle, who is entering his 14th season at the helm of the Hilltopper program.
The Hilltoppers open the season on February 6 at Francis Marion, beginning a schedule that will test a very young roster early while laying the foundation for the future of the program. West Liberty's Mountain East Conference slate gets underway on March 14, when the Hilltoppers host West Virginia State in their conference home opener.
West Liberty heads into the spring with one of the youngest lineups in the conference, a reality shaped by roster turnover, injuries to the pitching staff, and the ever-evolving transfer portal landscape. While that presents challenges, it also brings excitement.
"What excites us most is starting such a young lineup," Burkle said. "These guys are going to be together for their entire time at West Liberty, and that gives us a chance to really grow something special."
Despite the youth, the Hilltoppers return a pair of experienced seniors in Luke Marsh, a veteran catcher, and Brady Harman, a right-handed pitcher poised for an expanded role. Harman, who has spent the last three seasons anchoring the bullpen, is expected to step into a starting role and could be a key piece as the pitching staff continues to develop.
Leadership is still taking shape within the roster, but Burkle sees that process as part of the team's overall growth. "We're still building those leaders," he said, "and that's something this group will develop together."
Newcomers will play an immediate and significant role, as freshmen are expected to make up much of the everyday lineup. Giacomo Dolce, Austin Wittreich, and Cooper Basciano headline a class that fills key needs across the field, even if they arrive with limited collegiate experience.
"Every newcomer is going to have a chance to make an impact," Burkle said. "They're filling roles right away, and that's how they're going to learn."
On the field, West Liberty is still searching for its offensive identity, while placing an emphasis on fundamentals—particularly on the mound. Throwing strikes and staying competitive deep into games will be focal points as the season unfolds.
The Hilltoppers' non-conference schedule provides an early test, but one that Burkle believes will accelerate the team's development. West Liberty is also expected to play more home games this season after appearing in just 16 total home contests over the past two years.
While postseason aspirations remain part of the program's culture, the 2026 season is about building toward sustained success.
"Our goal is always the conference tournament," Burkle said. "But this year, it's also about developing young guys into roles that make them ready for a real run next season."
Success, he added, will be measured in growth as much as wins. "Compete. Grow. Develop. That's what this season is about."
Off the field, the program continues to set the standard academically. West Liberty baseball has posted a team GPA above 3.0 in nine of the last 10 semesters and has been recognized by the ABCA for Academic Excellence, a point of pride for the coaching staff.
As the Hilltoppers prepare to take the field, Burkle has a simple message for Hilltopper Nation.
"Stay patient," he said. "This group is going to be fun to watch as they develop over the course of the year."
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.
