Pacific Index

Boxer baseball is back, confident, and ready to build off a solid 2025 season

   After a dominant 2025 in conference play—including their fourth Northwest Conference title in five years—the Boxers are posting high expectations for the upcoming season.  

   Yet, Head Coach Jacob Upwood emphasizes the challenge that comes with maintaining that success. “It’s going to be hard to replicate that,” admits Upwood. “We lost some key pieces, and it’s a matter of guys stepping up and filling those roles. There’s a couple of teams that didn’t lose a whole lot which will make it difficult for us to repeat.” 

   Even so, Upwood believes the core of the program remains strong. “The nice thing is we have two guys returning, (pitcher/infielder) Nick Saelens and (pitcher) Governor Aufranc both will be in starting positions.” Those returners are expected to provide stability and experience as new players arrive to the team. 

   Rather than focusing solely on last year’s success, the Boxers are shifting focus towards maintaining their team standards and consistency. Aufranc is ready to help lead that charge heading into his senior season. Beyond his role on the mound he’s taken on responsibilities of being more of a vocal leader and helping younger players adjust to the college game. 

   The team is also excited to continue to strengthen their bond with second year Head Coach Upwood. He said that he brings a strong professional aspect to the team and he’s certainly done a great job continuing to show what Boxer baseball is all about.

   With a veteran core leading the charge, the Boxers are confident they’ll be competitive again this year. Though they’ll need their younger players to step up, Upwood is confident they’ve got what it takes in a conference that leaves a small margin for error.

   For Pacific, this year’s goal is to maintain consistency and be competitive while striving for a World Series title. The team understands the impact of losing senior players like Hunter Edwards, Will Merriott, and Chance Wallce, which will make it hard to continue conference dominance, and makes communication essential in 2026. Veterans look to their younger players to step up and shine to help take them far this year. 

   The Boxers face a schedule that will definitely challenge them. They opened the season with a disappointing, big number 18-10 loss to Pomona Pitzer.