UNM Lobos rally twice for dramatic opening day win

Baseball team scores walk-off victory over Fordham in season opener

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The University of New Mexico baseball team opened the 2026 season with a thrilling 10-9 walk-off victory over Fordham University. The Lobos rallied from behind twice, including a game-tying run in the bottom of the ninth inning, before scoring the winning run in dramatic fashion.

Why it matters

The Lobos' come-from-behind win on opening day sets a positive tone for the rest of the season and showcases the team's resilience and ability to win close games. UNM baseball is a source of pride for the Albuquerque community, and this victory will energize fans and boost morale heading into the rest of the schedule.

The details

After falling behind 5-0 early, the Lobos battled back to tie the game at 5-5. Fordham then regained the lead, but UNM responded with a game-tying run in the bottom of the ninth inning to force extra innings. In the 10th, the Lobos scored the winning run to secure the dramatic 10-9 victory in their season opener.

  • The game was played on February 14, 2026, the opening day of the 2026 college baseball season.
  • The Lobos scored the game-tying run in the bottom of the 9th inning to force extra innings.

The players

University of New Mexico Lobos

The baseball team representing the University of New Mexico, a public research university located in Albuquerque.

Fordham University

A private Jesuit research university based in The Bronx, New York, whose baseball team played against the Lobos on opening day.

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What they’re saying

“This was a huge win for our team to start the season. The guys showed a lot of heart and resilience to battle back twice and get the walk-off victory.”

— Ken Jaeger, Head Coach, University of New Mexico Lobos (Albuquerque Journal)

What’s next

The Lobos will look to build on this dramatic opening day win as they continue their non-conference schedule in the coming weeks, with key matchups against regional rivals on the horizon.

The takeaway

The Lobos' thrilling come-from-behind victory on opening day demonstrates the team's ability to win close games and the strong support they receive from the Albuquerque community. This win sets a positive tone for the rest of the Lobos' 2026 season.