UVA Baseball Looks to Continue Hot Start Against VCU

The Cavaliers seek to build momentum in weekend series against local foe

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The 7-1 Virginia Cavaliers baseball team is set to take on the VCU Rams in a three-game series, split between Charlottesville and Richmond. The Cavaliers are coming off an 11-0 rout of George Washington and look to continue their strong start to the season against their local rival.

Why it matters

This series represents an opportunity for the Cavaliers to build on their early-season success and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the Atlantic 10 conference. VCU has also had a respectable start to the year, making this an intriguing matchup between two regional programs.

The details

The Cavaliers will send Henry Zatkowski to the mound on Friday, hoping he can improve his command after walking seven batters in his first two starts. Max Stammel and John Paone will anchor the bullpen for Virginia. At the plate, the Cavaliers have been dominant, averaging 14.5 runs per game and reaching base nearly 50% of the time. VCU will counter with Kansas transfer Patrick Steitz, who has been impressive in his first two starts, and sophomore catcher Jacob Lee, who was a preseason all-conference selection.

  • The series opener is scheduled for 3 pm on Friday, February 28, 2026.
  • The second game will be played at 1 pm on Saturday, March 1, 2026.
  • The series finale is set for 1 pm on Sunday, March 2, 2026.

The players

Henry Zatkowski

The Virginia starting pitcher who will take the mound on Friday night.

Max Stammel

One of the anchors of the Cavaliers' bullpen.

John Paone

Another key member of the Virginia bullpen who has looked sharp in his first two appearances.

Patrick Steitz

The Kansas graduate transfer who has been impressive in his first two starts for VCU.

Jacob Lee

The VCU sophomore catcher who was a preseason all-conference selection.

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What they’re saying

“As long as the 'Hoos can clean up a few things defensively, ideally beginning this weekend, the talent will bring them a long ways.”

— Chris Pollard, Virginia Head Coach (yahoo.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This series represents an important opportunity for the Virginia Cavaliers to build on their strong start to the season and establish themselves as a top contender in the Atlantic 10 conference. With their potent offense and improving pitching staff, the Cavaliers will look to take care of business against their regional rival VCU.