Grand Canyon University to Compete in MLB Desert Invitational
For the fourth consecutive year, Grand Canyon University (GCU) will kick off its season at the prestigious MLB Desert Invitational. The Lopes' 2026 tournament schedule features three formidable opponents, enhancing an already competitive nonconference lineup.
The opening games include:
- Friday, Feb. 13 at 6 p.m. - vs. Northeastern - Brazell Field at GCU Ballpark
- Saturday, Feb. 14 at 1 p.m. - vs. Penn State - Salt River Fields (Scottsdale)
- Sunday, Feb. 15 at 5:30 p.m. - vs. Nebraska - Sloan Park (Mesa)
All three teams finished within the top 85 of last season's RPI rankings, with two having participated in the NCAA Tournament. GCU will continue its tradition of hosting a game at its ballpark, facing Northeastern, which boasts a strong recent record.
The Lopes will also renew rivalries with Big Ten teams Penn State and Nebraska, both of which have had successful seasons recently. GCU's nonconference schedule now includes nine teams that competed in the previous NCAA Tournament, ensuring a challenging start to the season.
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