The UMass Lowell River Hawks baseball team, under the leadership of Head Coach Nick Barese, has announced a demanding 2025 schedule featuring 54 games. The season will kick off with an extensive 17-game road trip, highlighting matches against formidable opponents before diving into conference play. Coach Barese expressed enthusiasm for this competitive lineup, emphasizing its role in preparing the team for the rigorous America East Conference. The early part of the season includes participation in prestigious tournaments and challenging series against strong competitors, ensuring the team is well-prepared for the intense months ahead.

A Grueling Early Road Trip Sets the Stage

The River Hawks will embark on a significant journey at the beginning of their season, facing tough competition across various locations. This initial stretch will test the team's resilience and adaptability. Starting from February 14, the players will participate in the Swig and Swine College Baseball Classic, followed by a series of matches in warmer climates. These encounters aim to build team cohesion and refine their skills before entering the more critical conference matches.

The 2025 Swig and Swine College Baseball Classic will see the River Hawks compete over three days, facing Mercyhurst, Ball State, and Towson. After this event, they will travel to Appalachian State for a three-game weekend series, then head to South Carolina Upstate for another set of three games. The team will continue to challenge themselves at the Central Virginia Challenge, playing against Lafayette and Richmond. Finally, they will conclude this grueling road trip with a match against Longwood and their first conference game against UMBC, setting a solid foundation for the rest of the season.

Home Games and Key Matchups Highlight Mid-Season

As the season progresses, the River Hawks will welcome several opponents to LeLacheur Park, balancing home games with crucial away matches. The return to home turf provides an opportunity for the team to gain momentum and support from local fans. Additionally, key matchups against both conference and non-conference rivals will shape the team's performance and standing throughout the year.

Following their long road trip, the River Hawks will host Holy Cross and Le Moyne, marking their first home appearances of the season. They will also face Bryant at home, enhancing their preparation for upcoming challenges. April brings a mix of road and home games, including series against Dartmouth, Stonehill, Maine, and Boston College. The team will further strengthen their position with home games against UMBC and Merrimack, as well as a doubleheader at Bryant. Notable matches against Binghamton and Quinnipiac round out the month. May features important conference games, including a series against UAlbany and the Kennedy Cup matchup against UMass Amherst. The season concludes with a home series against Boston College and final road games at Rhode Island and NJIT, leading up to the America East Championship in Orono, Maine.