The Florida SouthWestern (FSW) baseball team is poised to make history once again as they kick off their 2026 campaign. Last season, the Buccaneers reached the JUCO World Series for the first time ever, and now they are set to start their new season at a Major League ballpark.
The Bucs will make their debut at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, home of the Texas Rangers. It will be the first time junior college regular season games are played in a Major League stadium.
“These are going to be the first junior college regular season games played in a Major League stadium,” said FSW head coach Zac Cole.
Nicholas Lorenz, a pitcher for the FSW baseball team, shared his excitement about the unique opportunity.
“Playing at this level you don’t get to play many cool parks. But being able to start the season at the Rangers stadium that’s going to be an awesome experience,” said Lorenz.
“This is a great way to start the season. An unbelievable experience for our guys and just something we couldn’t pass up,” said Cole.
FSW catcher Evan Tavares expressed his pride in showcasing their talent on such a grand stage.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to show what us Florida guys can do,” said Tavares.
The FSW team is coming off a historic 2025 season, where they won the FCSAA Championship and secured their first trip to the JUCO World Series in Grand Junction.
“Once you get over that hump, now I think at least internally there’s the feeling hey this is what we’re trying to do. It’s not just pie in the sky anymore. We’re excited and I think this group is embracing they want to make it back out there,” said Cole.
The Bucs are focused on replicating their success from last season.
“It’s important to keep your eyes on the prize and know that we can do it. And the guys that are returning know what it’s like to play that kind of baseball,” said Lorenz.
Cole is confident in his team’s abilities.
“I think this is the most talented group I’ve ever had,” said Cole.
FSW will open their season on January 25 against Lake Land College.
