LINCOLN, Neb. --- Hamline University baseball opened the 2026 season with a strong 4-0 shutout win over Buena Vista on Friday afternoon at Lincoln (Neb.), starting 1-0 on the year. 

The Pipers struck first in the top of the first inning, taking advantage of an error and plate discipline. Alexander Hokenson singled and later scored the game's first run as Jacob Barmore drew an RBI walk to put Hamline ahead 1-0. 

Hamline added insurance in the fifth inning when Owen Giesen reached base and eventually scored on an RBI single from Maddex Van Slooten, making it 2-0. The Pipers pushed the lead to 3-0 in the seventh as Ryan Burley delivered an RBI single to score Kyle Vanek. Hamline capped the scoring in the ninth, with Vanek driving in Barmore on an RBI fielder's choice. 

On the mound, Hamline pitching was dominant. Teagan Yotter earned the win after tossing 6.0 shutout innings, allowing just one hit while striking out eight. Hans Christensen V closed out the game with three shutout innings and four strikeouts, securing the combined shutout and getting the credit for the save. 

Hamline finished with three hits but made them count, while Buena Vista was held to four hits and went scoreless despite multiple base runners.

The Pipers will play a double header against the Beavers in Lincoln, Neb. on Sunday, February 15, with game one starting at 12 PM.