Diamond Heels Sweep Indiana in Opening Series

North Carolina baseball team dominates in first three games of 2026 season

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The North Carolina baseball team completed a series sweep against the Indiana Hoosiers over the weekend, winning games by scores of 9-4, 12-2, and 4-3 in dramatic fashion. The Tar Heels' starting pitching was dominant, allowing only two runs across 15 innings, while the offense showed patience at the plate to force the opposing pitching staff into mistakes. Standout performances came from transfer Colin Hynek, who hit .500 with a 1.415 OPS over the three games.

Why it matters

This opening series sweep sets the tone for what could be a promising season for the Diamond Heels. Their ability to win close games and get production from up and down the lineup bodes well as they prepare to face tougher competition in the coming weeks. The strong starting pitching also suggests the team has the foundation to compete for a conference title and potential NCAA Tournament berth.

The details

In the series opener on Friday, starter Jason DeCaro tossed five scoreless innings, striking out seven batters. The offense then exploded for a six-run sixth inning to pull away for a 9-4 victory. Saturday's doubleheader saw similar patterns, with starters Folger Boaz and Ryan Lynch combining to allow just three runs over 10 innings. The Tar Heels' patient approach at the plate forced Indiana to go to its bullpen early, and UNC capitalized by scoring 12 and 4 runs respectively in those games. The finale was decided in dramatic fashion, as a walkoff home run from Macon Winslow in the 11th inning gave North Carolina the 4-3 win and the series sweep.

  • The series took place from February 14-15, 2026.
  • The Friday game was played on February 14.
  • The Saturday doubleheader was played on February 15.

The players

Jason DeCaro

North Carolina starting pitcher who tossed five scoreless innings with seven strikeouts in the series opener.

Folger Boaz

North Carolina starting pitcher who allowed one run over six innings with six strikeouts in the first game of the Saturday doubleheader.

Ryan Lynch

North Carolina starting pitcher who settled in after a rocky start to allow just one hit over his final four innings in the series finale.

Macon Winslow

North Carolina player who hit the game-winning walkoff home run in the 11th inning of the series finale.

Colin Hynek

North Carolina transfer player who hit .500 with a 1.415 OPS over the three-game series.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Tar Heels will host two mid-week games against Richmond and Longwood before traveling to face ECU in a three-game series over the weekend.

The takeaway

This opening series sweep showcases the Tar Heels' ability to win close games and get production from all parts of their lineup, suggesting they have the foundation to compete for a conference title and NCAA Tournament berth this season.