By William Petty
Beakon Staff Writer
Youngstown, OH April 16, 2026 – The Cardinal Mooney baseball team has started the 2026 season strong, opening with a 7-0 record and building early momentum as they continue their schedule. After last year’s district championship run, expectations have stayed high as the team looks to carry that success into this season.
Mooney has also earned early recognition statewide, sitting ranked No. 1 in Division IV on both MaxPreps and Prep Baseball Report (PBR). The ranking reflects their fast start, experience, and strong play on both sides of the ball as the season begins to take shape.
So far, the Cardinals have been finding ways to win in different situations, whether it’s close games, strong pitching performances, or timely hitting late in games. The undefeated start has shown early confidence as the team works through the first part of its schedule.
Kaden Reese said the team’s focus hasn’t changed despite the early success. “Being ranked No. 1 is cool, but we know it doesn’t really mean anything yet,” Reese said. “Our goal is bigger than that.”
Reese also said pitching has been a major reason for the 7-0 start. “Our pitchers are competing and throwing strikes,” he said. “When we do that, we put ourselves in a position to win every game.”
Tyler Wilson said the team’s success comes from staying locked in on the bigger picture. “Our goal is to win a state championship,” Wilson said. “Everything we’re doing right now is building toward that.”
Wilson also said last year’s district championship helped set the standard for the program. “Winning districts last year showed us what we’re capable of,” he said. “Now it’s about taking that next step.”
As the season continues, Cardinal Mooney is looking to build on its undefeated start, No. 1 Division IV ranking, and last year’s district championship. With strong pitching, balanced hitting, and high expectations, the Cardinals are aiming to compete for a state title as the season moves forward.