The Loyola Wolf Pack baseball team finished the 2026 season ranked No. 25 in the NAIA after a strong year that included a 37-19 record and their second consecutive SSAC Championship title. They made their fifth postseason appearance in six years, starting with a hot 12-2 record but facing challenges towards the end of the season. After success in the SSAC tournament, Loyola finished their postseason with a 1-2 record in the NAIA Opening Round in Shreveport, Louisiana.

By the Numbers
  • Loyola finished the season with a 37-19 overall record.
  • Jaxon Buratt led the team with a .367 batting average and 50 RBI.
  • Jake Cohen's 13 saves ranked second in the NAIA.
  • Frank Fernandez set a program record with a 0.92 ERA.
Yes, But

While the Wolf Pack made significant strides this season, their late struggles and moderate performance in the NAIA Opening Round highlight areas needing improvement to maintain competitiveness for future seasons.

State of Play
  • Loyola secured the No. 6 seed in the SSAC tournament following a 15-12 record in league play.
  • Three players from the team received All-SSAC First Team honors.
What's Next

Looking ahead, the Wolf Pack will aim to build on their postseason experience, strengthen their roster, and focus on consistent performance throughout the season to improve playoff prospects for 2027.

Bottom Line

Loyola's No. 25 ranking reflects a solid season but emphasizes the need for greater consistency and performance under pressure to advance further in future tournaments.