Wake Forest Stumbles in Baseball Season Opener

Deacons lose 8-2 to Houston in Puerto Rico

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Wake Forest baseball team lost its season opener 8-2 to Houston on Friday in Ponce, Puerto Rico. The Deacons gave up four runs in the bottom of the third inning, including two on an errant throw by first baseman Kade Lewis. Starter Blake Morningstar allowed five hits and two walks in three innings, while the Deacons' offense was limited to just two runs in the sixth inning.

Why it matters

This loss marks a disappointing start to the season for Wake Forest, which is looking to build on last year's performance and compete for a spot in the NCAA tournament. The team's struggles on the mound and at the plate will need to be addressed as they continue their season-opening road trip.

The details

Wake Forest starter Blake Morningstar gave up four runs in the third inning, two of which scored on an errant throw by first baseman Kade Lewis on a sacrifice bunt attempt. The Deacons committed just one error in the game, but four of the five runs charged to Morningstar were earned. Relievers Troy Dressler, Ryan Brennecke, and Grant Nicholson also struggled, allowing additional runs to cross the plate. The Deacons' offense was limited to just two runs in the sixth inning, despite their first four batters reaching base in that frame.

  • The game was played on Friday, February 13, 2026 in Ponce, Puerto Rico.

The players

Blake Morningstar

The Wake Forest starting pitcher, who allowed five hits and two walks in three innings of work.

Kade Lewis

The Wake Forest first baseman, whose errant throw in the third inning led to two runs scoring for Houston.

Jackson LaLima

The Houston batter who went 2-for-3 with three runs scored.

Paul Schmitz

The Houston pitcher who threw four shutout innings to start the game.

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What’s next

The Deacons will look to bounce back in their next game against Houston on Saturday in Puerto Rico.

The takeaway

This loss highlights the challenges Wake Forest will face in trying to build on last season's success, as they struggled on the mound and at the plate in their season opener. The team will need to make adjustments quickly to avoid falling behind early in the season.