Lehigh Baseball Sets NCAA Record with 20-Run First Inning

Mountain Hawks go on to win 38-6 over Coppin State in record-breaking game.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 9:29pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the frenetic action of a baseball game, with players' forms dissolving into vibrant brushstrokes and splatters of paint.Lehigh's record-breaking offensive explosion captures the unbridled energy and excitement of college baseball at its finest.Baltimore Today

The Lehigh University baseball team set an NCAA Division I record by scoring 20 runs in the first inning of their 38-6 victory over Coppin State on Tuesday night. The previous first-inning record was 18 runs, set by Princeton and Air Force in 1974. Lehigh's 38 total runs were also a Patriot League record and the most in a game between Division I teams since 2019.

Why it matters

Lehigh's historic offensive performance highlights the team's exceptional hitting ability and the program's strength. Setting NCAA records is a significant achievement that will bring national attention to the Mountain Hawks and their baseball program.

The details

In the first inning, Lehigh scored 20 runs, with 13 of those coming consecutively on bases-loaded walks, hit by pitches, or wild pitches. Lehigh's Owen Walewander capped the inning with a grand slam. The Mountain Hawks sent 23 batters to the plate, just three shy of the record for an inning. Lehigh's Aidan Quinn also set a Division I record by being walked seven times in the game.

  • The game took place on Tuesday, April 15, 2026.

The players

Lehigh University

A private research university located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known for its strong athletics programs, including its baseball team.

Coppin State University

A public historically black university located in Baltimore, Maryland, with a Division I athletics program that includes a baseball team.

Owen Walewander

A player on the Lehigh University baseball team who hit a grand slam in the record-breaking first inning.

Aidan Quinn

A player on the Lehigh University baseball team who set a Division I record by being walked seven times in the game.

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The takeaway

Lehigh University's baseball team has made history with their record-breaking performance, showcasing their offensive prowess and the strength of their program. This achievement will likely bring increased attention and recognition to the team and the university's athletics department.