Rock Chalk: My Trip to Kansas Baseball

In my time covering this game, I have been to a plethora of ballparks. Some fields have historic significance, some programs are built on the backs of Omaha runs, and others are just creating their own path from near scratch. Kansas baseball and Hoglund Park are writing their own story, thanks in large part to Coach Dan Fitzgerald. 

I came away from my weekend in Lawerence with a newfound appreciation for just how special Fitz has built this place in a short time. Yes, they had an Omaha team over 30 years ago, and they have had some successful seasons in the past, but nothing is going to match what they are creating now. It is a full school effort, and it feels that success is imminent. 

A family-friendly park while still hostile to opposing teams, this is a special place that has students, staff, faculty, and fans all believing in what the ball team is doing. It takes a unique kind of leader and culture to create a passionate fan base without the help of postseason success.

While I do feel that the near future will hold some tournament success, I’m enamored by the level of support the Jayhawks have already garnered. 

Coach Fitzgerald took over the Kansas program in 2023. Since his first year going 25-32, we have seen a steady incline. In 2024, the Jayhawks went 31-23, followed by 43-17 in 2025, matching the 2006 team that won the Big 12 tournament.

So far this season, they are 27-10 and sitting in first place after a slower than typical start and looking to match the 1993 College World Series squad that won 45 games. They’re trending upwards, and not just in the winning department, but the program and feel of Kansas baseball overall.

I was able to take my father-in-law to the Friday night game and we were welcomed by a staff that was exuberant and ready for a day of baseball. The game had been moved up two hours due to weather, yet about 1,500 faithful fans made their way to the 4:05 first pitch.

A test of a ballpark’s pulse comes from having that special feeling is when a fan base is interactive and creating atmosphere. The student section above the visiting dugout is just the chef’s kiss to the wonders of Hoglund Park. Students will #CranktheHog and have witty banter with opposing teams.

The stands are filled with family, friends, students, scouts, and visiting patrons. With a feeling like home and old school metal bleachers. The vibe is very derivative of a baseball pastime forgotten to the ages of the game. It brings out a feeling of excitement when 1,500 people are stomping their feet and cheering on an extra-inning walk-off victory on a Friday evening.

I am blessed to be able to provide fair and equal coverage for a game that I am so passionate about, and even I was emotional with no skin in the game. Finding myself living and dying on the edge of each pitch. 

After that chippy and emotional sweep in front of the emerged crowd, the Kansas Jayhawks sat alone atop the Big 12 standings, looking to further their cause for a possible host site come selection Monday.

I for one would be hard-pressed to not root for a Regional in Lawerence in front of that crowd. A student section that shows up, a behind-the-scenes staff that was nothing but professional on every level, and a team that is on the rise. Coach Dan Fitzgerald and staff are cooking up something special at Kansas, and I am awaiting the headliner dish. 

I can’t wait for my next visit to this wonderful place. Until next time, I’ll be reliving the memories made of a fantastic trip.