Carlow University to launch varsity Baseball program in 2026

PITTSBURGH --- Carlow University is excited to announce the addition of varsity men's baseball to its athletic offerings, with the first full season set to begin in the 2026-2027 academic year. The new program marks another step forward in Carlow's commitment to expanding student opportunities and further aligning with the values of NCAA Division III athletics. 

The Carlow Cabinet officially approved the addition of the program earlier this year, and the news was shared publicly by President Kathy Humphrey and Director of Athletics Lou Zadecky during the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) end-of-year meetings on May 20. A national search for the University's first head baseball coach is expected to launch later this summer. 

"This will create a new and exciting student-athlete experience on our campus," said Zadecky. "It will open the door for more student-athletes to experience Carlow University and its Mercy vision and values. We're proud to strengthen our partnership with the AMCC. We look forward to welcoming our first coach — and our first recruits." 

Carlow will dedicate the 2025-2026 academic year to program development, including recruitment, staffing and building a foundation for success. The 2026-2027 season will include a full conference schedule. 

"The AMCC is extremely pleased that Carlow will be adding baseball to their sport sponsorship offerings," said Commissioner Donna Ledwin. "Baseball is a very competitive and high-quality conference championship sport. Not only is the AMCC strengthened by this decision — adding it means Carlow will offer one more championship opportunity for their student-athletes in a region where baseball has an established profile at the high school level. It's a win-win for everyone." 

Carlow's investment in new athletics programs reflects the University's broader mission to nurture leadership, teamwork and personal growth both on and off the field. As a Mercy-rooted institution, Carlow believes in creating inclusive spaces for students to thrive in their academic, spiritual and athletic journeys. 

More information on the coaching search and recruitment process will be shared in the coming months.