The Georgia Bulldogs opened their 2026 season by taking two of three games against the Wright State Raiders. Georgia showed offensive firepower in the first two games, winning 13-1 and 9-0, but fell 6-3 in the series finale. Here are some takeaways from opening weekend:
Tre Phelps is still Tre Phelps
The junior from Atlanta returned to Athens determined to reach Omaha. Phelps has been moved to third base this season and made an immediate impact. He extended his career-long hitting streak to 17 games, dating back to last season, and recorded two home runs and a double in the series while making strong plays at the hot corner. Head coach Wes Johnson said, “I’ve told people, a healthy Tre Phelps is one of the best, if not the best, players in college baseball.” So far, the third-year starter is living up to that praise.
The rotation is as advertised
Right-hander Joey Volchko, a second-team preseason All-American, showed why he drew plenty of hype in his debut. Volchko threw four innings of two-hit baseball, allowing one run and striking out five en route to a win in game one. Kenny Ishikawa started game two, pitching four and a third innings of one-hit, scoreless baseball with eight strikeouts. Both pitchers consistently touched the high-90s on the radar gun.
The bullpen has improved
Much of Georgia’s struggles last year stemmed from the inability to close out games. The bullpen has been overhauled through the transfer portal and looked much stronger this weekend. The relievers gave up just three runs in three games, all in a single inning, and combined for 27 strikeouts against a Wright State offense that knocked out top-seeded Vanderbilt last year.
The offense still shows streakiness
Scoring 25 runs in 26 innings is impressive, but the Bulldogs showed signs of inconsistency. Fourteen of those runs came in just two innings, and the team was held scoreless in 15 of the 26 innings. While Georgia displayed its power at times, several innings exposed a lack of focus at the plate, particularly in the 6-3 loss in game three.
They’re still feeding the trees
Last year’s school record of eight players with double-digit home runs could be challenged this season. Five different Bulldogs hit a home run over opening weekend, with the team totaling seven homers in three games. It’s a strong start for a group chasing the 144 long balls the squad hit last season.
With only 15 returnees, there is still plenty for Georgia to learn, but the Bulldogs are off to a hot start.
