UIW Baseball: Inside the Cardinals’ Rise to Division I Excellence | Incarnate Word Athletics
I’ve followed Incarnate Word baseball’s remarkable journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a formidable force in NCAA Division I athletics. The Cardinals’ baseball program has transformed into one of the most exciting teams to watch in the Southland Conference.
As someone who’s witnessed their growth firsthand, I can tell you that UIW’s baseball program embodies dedication, skill and competitive spirit. From their state-of-the-art Sullivan Field to their passionate coaching staff led by head coach Ryan Shotzberger the Cardinals continue to develop talented players who make their mark both on and off the field. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to college baseball UIW’s program offers an impressive display of collegiate athletics at its finest.
Key Takeaways
- Incarnate Word Baseball has evolved significantly since joining NCAA Division I in 2013, becoming a competitive force in the Southland Conference
- The program’s state-of-the-art Sullivan Field features modern amenities including artificial turf infield, LED scoreboard, and professional-grade batting cages that enhance player development
- Under head coach Ryan Shotzberger’s leadership since 2018, the Cardinals have achieved multiple 30+ win seasons and set a program record with 15 conference victories in 2021
- The program has produced 5 MLB draft picks since 2015 and consistently generates both athletic and academic achievements, with 8 Academic All-Conference honorees in 2021
- Gameday experience at Sullivan Field offers unique fan traditions, interactive activities, and modern amenities, contributing to growing attendance numbers and community engagement
The Rise of Incarnate Word Baseball Program
The University of the Incarnate Word baseball program represents a compelling story of growth and achievement in collegiate athletics. The program’s transformation from its modest beginnings to its current position demonstrates the Cardinals’ commitment to excellence.
History and Program Development
UIW baseball began competing at the NAIA level in 1987 with a small roster of 25 players. The program’s initial years focused on building infrastructure including the construction of Sullivan Field in 1989. In 2013, the Cardinals made their historic transition to NCAA Division I status joining the Southland Conference. The hiring of head coach Ryan Shotzberger in 2018 marked a pivotal moment, bringing enhanced recruiting strategies that expanded the roster to 35 players from 12 different states.
- Produced 5 MLB draft picks since 2015
- Recorded 30+ win seasons in 2019 2021
- Achieved a program-best RPI ranking of 85 in 2022
- Set a school record with 15 conference victories in 2021
- Earned 3 All-Conference First Team selections in 2022
- Generated 8 Academic All-Conference honorees in 2021
| Year | Achievement | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Team Batting Average | .298 |
| 2021 | Conference Wins | 15 |
| 2022 | RPI Ranking | 85 |
| 2021 | Academic Honors | 8 |
Home Field Advantage at Sullivan Field
Sullivan Field serves as the heart of Incarnate Word baseball operations since 1989, providing a distinctive competitive edge for the Cardinals’ home games.
Stadium Features and Facilities
The 1,000-seat stadium incorporates modern amenities that enhance the baseball experience:
- Artificial turf infield with natural grass outfield optimizes playing conditions
- Spacious dugouts equipped with helmet racks storage compartments
- Professional-grade batting cages adjacent to the bullpen area
- LED scoreboard displays live statistics player information
- State-of-the-art press box with broadcasting capabilities
- Climate-controlled locker rooms with individual player storage
- Training room featuring rehabilitation recovery equipment
- Covered batting facility for year-round practice sessions
The field dimensions add to the stadium’s unique character:
| Location | Distance |
|---|---|
| Left Field | 330 feet |
| Center Field | 400 feet |
| Right Field | 330 feet |
| Backstop | 60 feet |
Recent facility upgrades include:
- Enhanced field drainage system installed in 2020
- Renovated concession stands with digital payment options
- Expanded parking area accommodating 300 vehicles
- Modernized lighting system for evening games
- ADA-compliant accessibility improvements throughout
The stadium’s intimate setting places spectators close to the action, creating an energetic atmosphere during home games. Field maintenance crews maintain the playing surface daily, ensuring optimal conditions for both practice sessions competition.
Notable Players and Alumni
Incarnate Word’s baseball program has produced exceptional talent throughout its history, with numerous players achieving significant milestones at both collegiate and professional levels.
MLB Draft Picks
The Cardinals’ MLB draft success includes five selections since 2015, demonstrating the program’s ability to develop professional-caliber talent. Notable draft picks include:
- Bernard Kisena (2023) – Selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 16th round
- Lee Thomas III (2021) – Picked by the Los Angeles Angels in the 12th round
- Eddy Gonzalez (2019) – Chosen by the Cleveland Guardians in the 23rd round
- Bryce Shepherd (2017) – Selected by the Detroit Tigers in the 31st round
- Luke Taggart (2015) – Drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 27th round
Record Holders
The Cardinals’ record books showcase outstanding individual achievements from multiple eras:
| Category | Player | Record | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Career Batting Average | Ethan Valdez | .364 | 2016-2019 |
| Single-Season Home Runs | Ridge Rogers | 15 | 2022 |
| Career Strikeouts (Pitcher) | Bernie Martinez | 256 | 2017-2020 |
| Single-Season Saves | Lance Rabb | 12 | 2021 |
| Career Hits | Ryan Flores | 238 | 2018-2022 |
- Antonio Valdez’s 27-game hitting streak in 2019
- Taylor Smith’s perfect game against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in 2021
- Josh Escobar’s single-season RBI record (68) set in 2022
- Marcus Smith’s career stolen base mark (82) established from 2019-2023
Coaching Legacy and Leadership
The coaching staff at Incarnate Word Baseball maintains a tradition of excellence through strategic leadership and player development. Their commitment to fostering talent while emphasizing academic achievement creates a comprehensive student-athlete experience.
Current Coaching Staff
Head coach Ryan Shotzberger leads the Cardinals’ coaching staff with support from assistant coaches Patrick Hallmark (pitching) Gene Salazar (hitting) since 2018. The staff includes:
- Shotzberger’s career record: 138-97 (.587 winning percentage)
- 15 All-Conference selections under current leadership
- 32 Academic All-Conference honorees
- 3 MLB draft picks developed since 2018
| Staff Position | Name | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Head Coach | Ryan Shotzberger | Program Operations |
| Assistant Coach | Patrick Hallmark | Pitching Development |
| Assistant Coach | Gene Salazar | Hitting Strategy |
| Operations Director | Mark Martinez | Team Logistics |
Key achievements under the current staff include:
- Record-breaking 15 conference wins (2021)
- Highest program RPI ranking (#85 in 2022)
- 30+ win seasons in 2019 2021
- Enhanced recruiting network across Texas California Florida
The coaching staff emphasizes:
- Advanced analytics in player development
- Modern training methodologies
- Comprehensive strength conditioning programs
- Academic performance monitoring
- Professional scouting relationships
Each coach brings specialized expertise focusing on specific aspects of player development while maintaining UIW’s tradition of athletic academic excellence.
Division I Transition Impact
The University of the Incarnate Word baseball program’s transition to NCAA Division I in 2013 marked a transformative period in its competitive landscape. The move elevated the program’s profile, attracting higher-caliber recruits and expanding its national presence.
Conference Performance
The Cardinals’ integration into the Southland Conference produced measurable improvements in team performance metrics. In 2021, the team set a program record with 15 conference victories, demonstrating their successful adaptation to Division I competition. Here’s a breakdown of the team’s conference achievements:
| Year | Conference Wins | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 14 | 30+ overall wins |
| 2020 | 8* | Season cut short (COVID-19) |
| 2021 | 15 | Program record for conference wins |
| 2022 | 13 | Program-best RPI ranking (85) |
The Cardinals’ competitive growth includes:
- Securing victories against established Division I programs like Texas State, UTSA and Sam Houston
- Developing consistent performance in conference series play
- Establishing rivalries with regional powerhouses
- Maintaining a .500+ conference record since 2019
- Earning multiple All-Conference selections annually
The program’s enhanced recruiting efforts brought talent from across Texas and neighboring states, strengthening the roster’s depth. Conference matchups against seasoned Division I opponents elevated the team’s strategic approach and game-day execution, contributing to their rapid development in the Southland Conference.
Game Day Experience and Fan Culture
Sullivan Field transforms into an electrifying venue on game days, creating a distinct atmosphere for Incarnate Word baseball. The pre-game activities start 2 hours before first pitch with fans tailgating in designated areas near the stadium entrance.
The gameday experience features:
- Live music from the UIW pep band during inning breaks
- Interactive fan contests between innings
- Local food vendors offering Texas-style concessions
- Free parking in three adjacent lots
- Family-friendly activities in the Kids Zone
The Cardinals’ faithful bring unique traditions to each home game:
- Standing ovations for double plays
- The 7th inning “Cardinal Call” chant
- Red Friday theme days with special merchandise
- Student section’s “Cardinals Nest” rally towel waves
- Post-game autograph sessions with players
Fan amenities at Sullivan Field include:
- Digital scoreboard with instant replay capabilities
- Shaded seating areas covering 60% of the grandstand
- Premium chairback seating behind home plate
- Free game day programs with updated statistics
- Mobile concession ordering through the UIW Athletics app
Season attendance metrics show growing fan engagement:
| Year | Average Attendance | Season Total | Sellouts |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 856 | 21,400 | 8 |
| 2022 | 789 | 19,725 | 6 |
| 2021 | 642 | 16,050 | 4 |
The Cardinals’ Red Club membership provides exclusive benefits:
- Priority seating selection
- VIP parking passes
- Early entry to stadium events
- Access to team practice sessions
- Invitation to annual baseball banquet
- Youth baseball clinics hosted monthly
- Meet-the-team events each semester
- Baseball camps during summer breaks
- Local school partnership programs
- Alumni networking gatherings
Conclusion
I’ve witnessed the UIW Cardinals baseball program transform into a powerhouse of collegiate athletics. Their journey from humble NAIA beginnings to NCAA Division I success stands as a testament to unwavering dedication and strategic growth.
Sullivan Field’s modern facilities paired with Coach Shotzberger’s leadership have created an environment where talent thrives. The program’s consistent production of MLB draft picks and record-breaking performances shows they’re not just participating – they’re excelling.
As the Cardinals continue to build their legacy both on and off the field I’m confident they’ll remain a force in the Southland Conference. Their commitment to excellence academic achievement and community engagement makes them a model for collegiate baseball programs nationwide.
