The Penn State Shenango baseball team is preparing to take the diamond this spring with a clear objective: leverage a veteran-heavy roster to climb the PSUAC standings. Boasting a deep group of upperclassmen and a versatile recruiting class, Shenango looks to translate experience into postseason success. Head Coach Carmen Nocera returns for another season at the helm, leading a squad that features a balanced mix of local talent and key out-of-state contributors.

Building Momentum

Coming off a competitive 2025 season, Shenango enters the new year with a roster built for the rigors of a 40-plus game schedule. Shenango demonstrated flashes of dominance last year and have focused this offseason on pitching depth and defensive consistency. With several key starters returning to their positions, the chemistry in the dugout is expected to be a primary strength as the team navigates a demanding conference slate.

Returners to Watch

• JA Quahliero (Sr., P/SS, New Castle, PA) – A local product from Neshannock, Quahliero brings senior leadership and dual-threat capability to the middle of the infield and the mound.

• Will Perry (Sr., P, Holiday, FL) – One of the anchors of the pitching staff, Perry's veteran presence will be vital in high-leverage conference matchups.

• Nate Evans (Sr., P/IF, Holiday, FL) – 2025 Conference Player of the Year, Evans provides versatility and experience both in the field and on the rubber.

• Dante Micaletti (Jr., 2B/SS, New Castle, PA) – Known for his defensive reliability, Micaletti will be a key factor in Shenango's ability to turn double plays and control the infield.

• Mikey Guarnieri (Jr., 1B, Niles, OH) – Guarnieri provides a powerful bat in the heart of the lineup and a steady glove at first base.

Newcomers to Watch

The 2026 class adds size and depth across the board:

• Jacob Csonka (Fr., P/1B/OF, Greenville, PA) – At 6'3", Csonka offers an imposing presence and the ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game.

• Shaun Updegraff (Fr., P, Salem, OH) – Adds a fresh arm to the bullpen as Shenango looks to bolster their pitching depth.

• Will Nardone (Fr., P/1B, Ellwood City, PA) – A two-way player who brings additional power to the corners and the mound.

• Jake Shumate (Fr., 1B, North Lima, OH) – A physical presence at 6'2", 280 lbs, Shumate looks to add depth to the first base position and the middle of the order.

Milestones & Storylines to Watch in 2026

• Pitching Depth: With seniors like Perry, Evans, and Quahliero leading the way, Shenango's rotation has the potential to be one of the most experienced in the PSUAC.

• Local Flavor: The roster remains heavily rooted in the Mahoning and Shenango Valleys, with players from New Castle, Mercer, Sharpsville, and Niles leading the charge.

• Spring Break Surge: Shenango will once again head to Myrtle Beach for the Ripken Experience in March, a crucial stretch of 10 games in eight days that often defines the team's early-season rhythm.

• Postseason Push: After a strong showing in recent years, the goal remains a deep run in the PSUAC Tournament and a bid for the USCAA World Series.

2026 Schedule Highlights

Shenango opens its regular season with a road trip to Christendom on March 6, followed by its annual spring trip to Myrtle Beach, SC.

Other key dates:

• March 21-22: Home-and-home series vs. Lorain County CC (Home opener at Pemberton Park).

• March 27-28: Conference opening series vs. Penn State New Kensington.

• April 10-11: A high-stakes weekend series against Penn State DuBois.

• April 18-19: Division clash with Penn State Fayette.

• April 24-25: Regular season finale against Penn State Greater Allegheny, with playoff seeding likely on the line.

With a veteran core and a hungry group of newcomers, Penn State Shenango is ready to make its mark in the PSUAC. Fans can follow all the action live via the Penn State Shenango Athletics Website