Grit and Growth Define Cowboys Baseball Rebuild by: Aniekeme Andy

Hardin-Simmons University baseball is entering the 2026 season focused on growth, effort and togetherness as the Cowboys work through a rebuilding year. After reflecting on last season, players and coaches have made culture and chemistry the foundation for moving forward.

The Cowboys’ main goal this season is to win the American Southwest Conference (ASC). Along with that, the team has set performance standards such as averaging nine runs per game and improving its ERA. These goals reflect a desire to be more consistent and competitive.

“One of the biggest challenges we have faced is really trying to become a team,” Benji Fielder Jr., a junior history education major from Arlington, said. “We have a lot of freshmen and transfers who are going to make a big impact while coming together for one common goal.”

The emphasis on unity has extended beyond the field. The Cowboys have participated in-service projects organized by the coaching staff thus allowing players to serve the community while building stronger relationships with one another. “We have had service projects that Coach Vaught and Coach Wilson brought for us to serve the community as a team,” Fielder said.

Daily routines have helped shape the team’s identity. Early morning extra work, especially in small hitting groups, has become a normal part of the schedule. Players also take responsibility for field jobs after practice, creating pride in their home field.

“My favorite part is just the early morning extra work with my hitting group and then after practicing getting our field jobs done so the field looks good for games,” Fielder said.

Team chemistry has been a major point of emphasis throughout the preseason. Rather than separating into positional groups, players have worked to stay connected as one unit.

“Chemistry is big,” Fielder said. “We have tried not to divide ourselves into positional groups and try to be a unified team. Culture is the backbone. We are going to be gritty and play hard every game.”

Leadership has emerged from several players on the roster. Brock Calvillo, a first baseman and designated hitter, has set the tone with his energy and effort. Middle infielder Keaton Sweska has helped hold teammates accountable, while pitcher Jack Kimsey has brought a professional mindset to the pitching staff. “His energy and consistent all-out effort rub off on everyone,” Fielder said. “Keaton Sweska holds everyone to their standard of being great and does not settle for anything less. Jack Kimsey has brought that professional mentality that all the pitchers look to have.”

For Fielder, motivation comes from perspective and gratitude. He credits his family for the sacrifices they have made and uses that support as motivation during the long days that come with being a student athlete. “What motivates me is what my family has sacrificed for me to be here,” Fielder said. “A lot of people would love to be in my shoes and are not able to, and it drives me to compete every day like it is my last.”

As the season begins, the Cowboys are eager to test themselves against other competitions and show the growth they have made. “I am most excited to see how we play against other competitors and to prove to our University that we work hard and are doing what it takes to win ball games,” Fielder said.