Baylor Baseball Faces Roster Wildcards Ahead of 2026 Season

Top questions surround pitching staff and outfielder Ty Johnson

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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As Baylor baseball prepares for the 2026 season, the team faces several key wildcards on its roster. Redshirt junior right-handed pitcher Lucas Davenport is battling for a spot in the weekend rotation after a strong sophomore campaign out of the bullpen. Fifth-year senior center fielder Ty Johnson is looking to rebound after a down year at the plate in 2025. Additionally, a trio of left-handed pitchers - senior Ethan Calder, junior Mason Green, and senior Stefan Stahl - present intriguing questions about their roles and potential impact on the staff.

Why it matters

Baylor is looking to build on its 2025 season and compete for a Big 12 title. The development and performance of these key players will be crucial in determining the Bears' success this spring. Davenport, Johnson, and the left-handed pitching trio all have the potential to significantly boost the team, but they also carry question marks that need to be resolved.

The details

Lucas Davenport had a strong 2025 season out of the bullpen, posting a 4.25 ERA and 34 strikeouts in 42.1 innings. He's now battling for a spot in the weekend rotation and has seen an uptick in his fastball velocity. Ty Johnson was a breakout star in 2024 but regressed in 2025, hitting just .261. The Bears need him to recapture his previous form to boost their lineup. The trio of left-handed pitchers - Ethan Calder, Mason Green, and Stefan Stahl - all have the potential to be impact arms, but their roles and performances are uncertain heading into the season.

  • Baylor's season opener is scheduled for February 13 against New Mexico State.
  • Davenport was the ace at Blinn College in 2024, going 10-2 with a 3.75 ERA.

The players

Lucas Davenport

Redshirt junior right-handed pitcher who is battling for a spot in Baylor's weekend rotation after a strong 2025 season out of the bullpen.

Ty Johnson

Fifth-year senior center fielder who is looking to rebound after a down 2025 season at the plate.

Ethan Calder

Senior left-handed pitcher who had success as a reliever in 2024 but struggled as a starter in 2025.

Mason Green

Junior left-handed pitcher who missed the first half of 2025 with a shoulder injury but has the potential to emerge as Baylor's Friday ace if healthy.

Stefan Stahl

Senior left-handed pitcher who is looking to put together a strong 2026 season after an inconsistent 2025 campaign.

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What’s next

Baylor's pitching staff and lineup will be closely watched as the team prepares for its season opener against New Mexico State on February 13.

The takeaway

Baylor's 2026 season hinges on the development and performance of several key wildcards on the roster. If players like Davenport, Johnson, and the left-handed pitching trio can reach their potential, the Bears have the talent to compete for a Big 12 title. However, if these players struggle, it could derail Baylor's hopes for a successful campaign.