Miami, FL- Monroe University opened the 2026 season with a 16-0 loss to Coastal Alabama–South on Friday afternoon, as the Sun Chiefs used a pair of big innings to pull away after a scoreless start.

The game was tight early, with both teams held without a run through the first two innings. Coastal Alabama broke through in the bottom of the third with a three-run home run, then blew the game open in the fourth inning by scoring seven runs on a combination of extra-base hits and timely contact to take a 10-0 lead. The Sun Chiefs added four runs in the fifth and two more in the sixth to put the game out of reach.

Monroe was limited to three hits in the opener. Jesus Nieves went 1-for-2 with a walk and a stolen base, while Franklin Francisco and Marcus Mercado each added a hit. The Mustangs also drew two walks but were unable to string together offense against Coastal Alabama–South pitching, which struck out nine and allowed no runs.

Victor Ceballos-Polanco took the loss on the mound, working 3.1 innings in his season debut. Monroe used four pitchers in the game, with Carlos Pimentel-Rodriguez providing two innings of relief to close out the contest.

ABOUT THE ATHLETIC PROGRAM AT MONROE UNIVERSITY
The athletic program at Monroe University encompasses a total of 26 teams competing across nine sports. There are 19 varsity and junior varsity programs, as well as the Monroe University marching band, competing on the New Rochelle campus as the Mustangs (NJCAA Division I). The Monroe Express, based out of the Bronx campus, has seven teams competing at the NJCAA Division III level.
 
For more information about the Monroe Mustangs, please visit us at www.MonroeUMustangs.com or follow us on social media: Facebook (Monroe Mustangs Athletics), Twitter (@MonroeMustangs) and Instagram (@monroemustangs).