The Iowa Hawkeyes concluded their 2026 baseball season with a 33-23 record, marking their 11th consecutive appearance in the Big Ten Tournament. Two players, Gable Mitchell and Kooper Schulte, were drafted to MLB, highlighting the program's continued success under coach Rick Heller, who recorded his 400th win at Iowa this season. The team averaged 30 wins per season since Heller's tenure began, showcasing a strong commitment to competitive play. Iowa also honored their late public address announcer, Gregg Bentler, through uniform patches this season.

By the Numbers
  • 33 wins in the 2026 season, marking the 11th consecutive season with 30 or more wins under Heller.
  • Gable Mitchell was drafted in the 6th round, and Kooper Schulte in the 20th round of the 2026 MLB Draft.
Yes, But

Despite consistent performance, Iowa has not captured another Big Ten Tournament title since their initial victory in 2017, indicating room for improvement in postseason success.

State of Play
  • Iowa finished 11th in the Big Ten Tournament, with a total of 28-35 record historically.
  • The team showcased a strong batting performance, achieving 52 hits in a series against Purdue, the most under Heller.
What's Next

Looking ahead, Iowa aims to solidify their lineup with returning letterwinners and incoming talent, including six Division I transfers. This strategic focus could enhance their postseason performance and challenge for future titles.

Bottom Line

Iowa baseball continues to thrive under Rick Heller, with season achievements and player development indicating strong potential for future success. The Hawkeyes must leverage their talent and build upon this foundation for a deeper postseason run.