The 2026 UC San Diego baseball roster represents a pivotal chapter in the program's continued evolution within the Big West Conference. Following a competitive 2025 campaign that saw individual records shattered and a strong home-field advantage at Triton Ballpark, the 2026 squad features a strategic blend of 23 seasoned returners and 17 incoming talents. This mix of veteran leadership and fresh energy is designed to propel the Tritons toward the top of the conference standings.

Quick Overview of the 2026 Triton Squad

For the 2026 season, the UC San Diego Tritons have built a roster that emphasizes defensive versatility and power hitting. The squad is characterized by its significant number of "scholar-athletes," reflecting the university's high academic standards. The roster includes a diverse range of academic majors, from Data Science and Molecular Biology to International Business and Quantitative Finance.

The 2026 team features:

  • Total Players: 40
  • Returners: 23 (including several All-Big West honorees)
  • Newcomers: 17 (a mix of true freshmen and strategic transfers)
  • Key Leaders: J.C. Allen, Gabe Camacho, and Michael Crossland

Official 2026 UC San Diego Baseball Roster List

Below is the complete player list for the 2026 season, including their positions, heights, academic majors, and eligibility years.

No. Name Pos. Ht. Major Year Hometown (High School/Previous School)
2 Anthony Potestio INF/OF 5-11 Real Estate and Development Jr. Brentwood, Calif. (Heritage HS)
3 Alex Leopard OF 5-9 Communication Sr. Sebastopol, Calif. (Analy HS)
4 Addison Klepsch INF 5-10 International Business So. San Diego, Calif. (Del Norte HS)
6 Delshaun Lanier OF 5-11 Real Estate and Development Sr. Torrance, Calif. (North Torrance HS)
7 Devon King RHP/OF 6-1 Real Estate and Development Jr. Imperial Beach, Calif. (Mar Vista HS)
8 Jayden Lee OF 6-1 Business Economics So. Tiburon, Calif. (Marin Catholic HS)
10 Thomas Maher INF 5-10 Business Economics So. San Diego, Calif. (Torrey Pines HS)
11 Quincey Brown RHP 6-2 Real Estate and Development Fr. Seattle, Wash. (O’Dea HS)
12 Nathan Ries RHP 6-2 Business Economics So. Upland, Calif. (Damien HS)
13 Cal Elvis C/OF 6-0 Real Estate and Development Jr. Vacaville, Calif. (Vacaville HS)
14 Jake Villar LHP 5-9 Economics Gr. Santa Clarita, Calif. (Hart HS)
15 Nick Costello OF 5-11 Human Developmental Sciences Gr. Pleasanton, Calif. (Dublin HS)
16 Ryson Ujimori INF 5-11 Business Psychology R-Jr. Aiea, Hawai'i (Aiea HS)
17 Julian Cazares LHP 6-0 International Business Sr. Indio, Calif. (La Quinta HS)
18 Trevor Rector RHP 6-1 Human Developmental Sciences R-So. Imperial Beach, Calif. (Mar Vista HS)
19 Nathan Huy LHP 6-2 Business Economics Jr. Yorba Linda, Calif. (El Dorado HS)
20 Austin Bowker RHP 6-3 Business Economics R-Fr. Lone Tree, Colo. (Rock Canyon HS)
21 Bryan Bradshaw OF 6-0 History Jr. Pomona, Calif. (Bonita HS)
22 Drake Bicknell C 5-11 Master of Quantitative Finance Gr. El Dorado Hills, Calif. (Jesuit HS)
23 Trevian Martinez C 6-0 Real Estate and Development So. Union City, Calif. (James Logan HS)
24 Harry Pelzman LHP 6-3 Undeclared So. Redwood City, Calif. (Woodside HS)
25 J.C. Allen 1B/3B 6-4 International Business Sr. Irvine, Calif. (Irvine HS)
26 Ethan Russell RHP 6-2 Business Psychology Fr. Laguna Niguel, Calif. (Santa Margarita Catholic HS)
27 Steele Murdock RHP 6-2 Communication R-So. Herriman, Utah (Herriman HS)
28 Chapman Weber RHP 6-1 Business Psychology So. Menifee, Calif. (Paloma Valley HS)
29 Nathaniel Widelski OF 6-1 Clinical Psychology Fr. San Diego, Calif. (Mira Mesa HS)
30 Kayden Henson C/RHP 6-0 Human Developmental Sciences Fr. Santee, Calif. (Santana HS)
31 Raphael Dunne INF 5-11 International Business Fr. San Diego, Calif. (Saint Augustine HS)
32 Colin Rhee RHP 6-1 Economics Jr. Irvine, Calif. (Beckman HS)
34 Gabe Camacho 1B 6-1 International Business Jr. Encinitas, Calif. (La Costa Canyon HS)
35 Alex Mascaro RHP 6-3 Political Sciences Jr. Orange, Calif. (El Modena HS)
37 Evan Seneres RHP 5-10 Business Psychology Fr. Escondido, Calif. (San Pasqual HS)
38 Nic Gregson RHP 5-11 Communications Gr. Sacramento, Calif. (Kennedy HS)
39 Connor Et Nire RHP 6-0 Molecular and Cell Biology Fr. Aliso Viejo, Calif. (Aliso Niguel HS)
40 Shane Cannon INF 5-10 Business Economics Fr. Coronado, Calif. (Coronado HS)
41 Jack Lorenz RHP 6-2 Business Economics Fr. Los Alamitos, Calif. (Los Alamitos HS)
43 Garrett Davidson OF/LHP 5-11 Business Economics So. Tustin, Calif. (Foothill HS)
44 Liam O'Day INF 6-2 Business Psychology Fr. San Diego, Calif. (Del Norte HS)
46 Michael Crossland OF 6-0 Human Biology Jr. Seattle, Wash. (Roosevelt HS)
50 Branden Jackel LHP 6-3 International Business Jr. Spring Valley, Calif. (Steele Canyon HS)

Positional Depth and Roster Strategy

The Pitching Staff: Starters and Relievers

The 2026 pitching staff is anchored by returning standouts who have already proven their mettle in high-leverage situations. Steele Murdock, a 2025 Cape Cod League All-Star, remains a focal point of the rotation. His ability to maintain a low ERA while generating high strikeout numbers (averaging over 11 strikeouts per nine innings in recent stretches) makes him a front-line starter.

Supporting Murdock are veterans like Nic Gregson and Jake Villar. Gregson, now a graduate student, brings veteran stability to the bullpen or starting role, having posted an impressive 0.00 ERA in key appearances during the 2025 season. The staff also sees the return of Nathan Ries and the redshirt freshman Austin Bowker, providing the Tritons with multiple options for mid-week games and weekend series.

New arms such as Quincey Brown and Ethan Russell add height and velocity to the roster. The addition of Branden Jackel, a 6-3 junior left-hander, is particularly significant for situational matchups against the heavy left-handed lineups common in the Big West.

The Infield Core: Power and Versatility

The infield is led by first baseman Gabe Camacho, who was a statistical powerhouse in 2025. Camacho’s .329 batting average and .607 slugging percentage in previous seasons established him as one of the most feared hitters in the conference. Joining him at the corners is J.C. Allen, a 6-4 senior who provides both power and an expansive defensive reach at first and third base.

Up the middle, the Tritons rely on the agility of Anthony Potestio and the emerging talent of Addison Klepsch. Ryson Ujimori, returning as a redshirt junior, adds defensive depth and a high baseball IQ to the middle infield positions. The inclusion of true freshmen like Shane Cannon and Liam O'Day suggests a focus on developing long-term replacements for the senior-heavy veteran core.

Outfield and Utility Roles

Michael Crossland is the headline name in the outfield. As a sophomore in 2025, Crossland set the program’s Division I single-season record for home runs (11) and maintained an OPS over 1.000. His return for his junior year is vital for the Tritons' offensive identity. He is flanked by Alex Leopard, who holds the record for most home runs (3) and RBIs (8) in a single Division I game for UCSD.

The outfield also features Delshaun Lanier and Nick Costello, the latter rejoining the active roster after missing the 2025 season due to injury. Costello’s previous 10-home-run season adds another layer of power to a lineup that already led the Big West in home runs in 2025.

Behind the Dish: The Catchers

The catching rotation for 2026 is a blend of experience and potential. Drake Bicknell, a graduate student pursuing a Master’s in Quantitative Finance, provides a veteran presence behind the plate. His ability to manage the pitching staff is complemented by Trevian Martinez and newcomer Cal Elvis, who also offers versatility as an outfielder.

Key Returners: Building on 2025 Success

To understand the potential of the 2026 roster, one must look at the achievements of the returning players during the previous season.

  1. Michael Crossland (OF): His 2025 season was historic. By ranking 13th nationally in doubles and leading the conference in total bases for much of the spring, Crossland proved he is an elite-level talent. His .618 slugging percentage is a benchmark the team hopes to replicate in 2026.
  2. Gabe Camacho (1B): Known for his ability to get on base (.467 OBP), Camacho’s discipline at the plate creates significant scoring opportunities for the middle of the lineup.
  3. J.C. Allen (INF): An All-Big West honoree whose power surge in late April 2025 (including a .400 average during the Santa Barbara series) signaled his transition into a primary offensive threat.
  4. Steele Murdock (RHP): After a stellar summer in the Cape Cod League, Murdock’s development into a potential Friday-night starter is a major storyline for the 2026 rotation.

The Newcomers: 17 Fresh Faces

The 17 newcomers represent a significant recruitment effort by the coaching staff. This group includes:

  • True Freshmen: Players like Quincey Brown (Seattle) and Ethan Russell (Laguna Niguel) represent the future of the program, recruited from competitive high school circuits.
  • Transfers: The roster includes strategic additions from Junior Colleges and other Division I/II programs, aimed at filling immediate gaps in the pitching rotation and utility depth.
  • Local Talent: A hallmark of UCSD recruitment is the focus on San Diego area talent, evidenced by newcomers from Del Norte HS, Torrey Pines HS, and Mira Mesa HS.

Coaching and Support Staff

The success of the 2026 roster is guided by a stable and experienced coaching staff:

  • Head Coach Eric Newman: Entering another season as the leader of the Tritons, Newman has been instrumental in the program’s successful transition to Division I.
  • Associate Head Coach Matt Harvey: Focuses on the development of the pitching staff and overall game strategy.
  • Assistant Coaches Justin Beck and Tyler Nordgren: Beck, a 2019 UCSD alumnus, brings a deep understanding of the program's culture.
  • Support Staff: Includes Director of Baseball Operations Daniel Stange, Director of Player Development Ryan Bobb, and Performance Coach Patrick McLeroy.

The support staff ensures that the 40-man roster remains physically and mentally prepared for the rigors of a 50+ game schedule, focusing on everything from biometrics to nutritional optimization.

The Academic Profile: Scholar-Athletes

One of the most impressive aspects of the UCSD baseball roster is the academic rigor of the players. Unlike programs that steer athletes toward "easier" majors, Triton baseball players are enrolled in some of the university’s most demanding programs.

  • STEM Representation: The roster includes majors in Molecular and Cell Biology (Connor Et Nire), Human Biology (Michael Crossland), and Data Science (Harry Pelzman).
  • Business and Economics: A plurality of the team majors in Business Economics, International Business, or Economics, preparing them for the competitive business landscape of Southern California.
  • Graduate Excellence: Players like Drake Bicknell (Quantitative Finance) and Nick Costello (Human Developmental Sciences) demonstrate that it is possible to pursue advanced degrees while competing at the highest level of collegiate athletics.

Geographic Breakdown: The California Core

The 2026 roster is heavily rooted in California baseball culture, with a specific emphasis on the San Diego and Orange County regions.

  • San Diego Local Product: Players like Addison Klepsch (Del Norte), Thomas Maher (Torrey Pines), and Nathaniel Widelski (Mira Mesa) ensure a strong local fan base and connection to the community.
  • Northern California Influence: The roster draws significantly from the Bay Area and Sacramento, with players like Alex Leopard (Sebastopol) and Nic Gregson (Sacramento).
  • Pacific Northwest and Beyond: The recruitment net has expanded to include top-tier talent from Washington (Quincey Brown, Michael Crossland), Utah (Steele Murdock), and Colorado (Austin Bowker).

Historical Context: The Division I Transition

The 2026 season marks another year in the Big West Conference, a league known for its traditional baseball powerhouses like Cal State Fullerton and UC Irvine. The Tritons have steadily improved their standing since moving to Division I.

In 2025, the team set multiple D-I era records:

  • Home Runs: 62 (Breaking the previous record of 54).
  • Individual Feats: Alex Leopard’s three-home-run game and Michael Crossland’s 11 season homers.
  • Pitching Dominance: Spencer Seid’s 13-strikeout performance matched the all-time single-game program record.

The 2026 roster is built to exceed these milestones, with a deeper bullpen and a more experienced batting order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the head coach of UCSD baseball?

Eric Newman is the head coach of the UC San Diego baseball team. He has been a driving force behind the program’s growth and its transition into the Division I Big West Conference.

Where does the UCSD baseball team play their home games?

The Tritons play at Triton Ballpark, located on the east side of the UC San Diego campus in La Jolla, California. The facility is known for its professional-grade playing surface and scenic location.

How many new players are on the 2026 UCSD baseball roster?

The 2026 roster features 17 newcomers, which include a mix of true freshmen and transfers from other collegiate programs.

Which UCSD baseball player holds the Division I single-season home run record?

Michael Crossland set the program’s Division I single-season record with 11 home runs during the 2025 season. He is a key returning member of the 2026 roster.

What conference does UC San Diego baseball compete in?

UC San Diego competes in the Big West Conference, joining other UC schools like UC Santa Barbara, UC Irvine, and UC Riverside.

Summary of the 2026 UCSD Baseball Outlook

The 2026 UC San Diego baseball roster is a testament to the program's rapid rise in the Division I ranks. By retaining a core of record-breaking power hitters like Michael Crossland and Gabe Camacho, and reinforcing the pitching staff with elite arms like Steele Murdock and talented newcomers, the Tritons are positioned for a breakout year.

The blend of veteran graduate students and high-potential freshmen creates a dynamic environment where leadership and innovation go hand-in-hand. Furthermore, the academic diversity of the roster reinforces the "Triton Way"—excellence both on the diamond and in the classroom. As the 2026 season approaches, fans can expect a high-scoring, defensively sound team that continues to challenge the established hierarchy of the Big West.