Indiana's Jake Hanley Finds Swing in Win Over Xavier

Sophomore first baseman delivers productive performance after being moved down in the lineup

Feb. 26, 2026 at 4:36am

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After being moved down in the lineup, Indiana's Jake Hanley delivered his most productive performance of the season in the Hoosiers' 10-4 win over Xavier. Hanley, the reigning Big Ten Freshman of the Year, had struggled early in the season but responded well to the lineup change, recording three hits and three RBIs.

Why it matters

Hanley is a key cog in Indiana's offense, which is built around him, catcher Hogan Denny, and shortstop Cooper Malamazian. When Hanley is producing, the Hoosiers' offense tends to thrive, so his breakout performance was an important boost for the team.

The details

Indiana head coach Jeff Mercer did not inform Hanley that he was being moved down in the lineup, simply posting the new lineup card. Hanley responded with an RBI single in the fourth inning, an RBI double in the fifth, and another RBI single in the sixth, helping power Indiana's offensive outburst.

  • Indiana played Xavier on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Jake Hanley

Indiana's sophomore first baseman and the reigning Big Ten Freshman of the Year.

Jeff Mercer

Indiana's head baseball coach.

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What they’re saying

“Jake's about winning. He's about the team. He's such a good kid. He wants to help the team. It's never about him or his accolades or anything else.”

— Jeff Mercer, Indiana Head Coach

“Sometimes a change of scenery is good. Maybe coming up in a different situation in the lineup is good. He responded really well today.”

— Jeff Mercer, Indiana Head Coach

What’s next

Indiana will look to build on Hanley's strong performance as they continue their season.

The takeaway

Hanley's productive day at the plate shows the importance of his role in Indiana's offense, and the team's ability to adjust and find success when their key players are struggling.