Vanderbilt Baseball's Weekend in Arlington Wasn't All Bad Despite Record

The Commodores' performance at the Shriner's Children's College Showdown showed promise despite a 1-2 record.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Vanderbilt baseball's 1-2 record at the Shriner's Children's College Showdown in Arlington, Texas, may not have met the program's high standards, but coach Tim Corbin saw positive signs for the team's future. The Commodores demonstrated improved power production, with nine home runs over the weekend, and strong starting pitching performances, even in defeat. While the team showed some volatility at the plate, Corbin believes the offense has taken a step forward overall.

Why it matters

As one of the top college baseball programs in the country, Vanderbilt has high expectations every season. While a 1-2 record may not meet those lofty goals, Corbin sees the weekend as an opportunity for growth and a chance for the team to build on its strengths as the season progresses.

The details

Despite the disappointing record, Vanderbilt's performance in Arlington provided several encouraging signs. The Commodores hit nine home runs, including multiple homers from Brodie Johnston and Colin Barczi, indicating an improved power output compared to previous seasons. The team's starting pitchers also turned in strong outings, suggesting the potential for a formidable weekend rotation. However, the team also showed some volatility at the plate, striking out 14, 13, and 9 times over the three games, as they traded some of their traditional situational hitting for more power.

  • The Shriner's Children's College Showdown took place on February 13, 2026, in Arlington, Texas.

The players

Tim Corbin

The head coach of the Vanderbilt baseball team, who has built the program into one of the best in the country.

Brodie Johnston

A Vanderbilt player who hit three home runs over the weekend, demonstrating his improved power and plate discipline.

Colin Barczi

A Vanderbilt player who also hit three home runs over the weekend, contributing to the team's improved power output.

Logan Johnstone

A transfer outfielder for Vanderbilt who hit one home run over the weekend, adding to the team's offensive production.

Ryker Waite

Vanderbilt's starting shortstop, who hit one home run during the weekend's games.

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What they’re saying

“You're getting that type of home run length from several people in the lineup, which is good because I know that's been a little bit of a question. It's a big ballpark, too, so you've got to hit the ball hard.”

— Tim Corbin, Head Coach (World Baseball Network)

“He's really improved from the standpoint of decision making. That's the one thing if you look at him from last year to this year, it's a big difference.”

— Tim Corbin, Head Coach (World Baseball Network)

What’s next

As the season progresses, Vanderbilt will look to build on the positive signs from the Arlington tournament and continue to develop its power-hitting abilities while maintaining its strong pitching performances.

The takeaway

Despite the disappointing 1-2 record, Vanderbilt's performance in Arlington showcased the team's potential for a successful season. The Commodores' improved power output, strong starting pitching, and coach Corbin's optimism about the team's offensive development suggest the program is poised to contend for another deep postseason run.