DeLAND, Fla. — A night at Melching Field at Conrad Park is about more than just baseball. It's a full game-day experience. From in-game contests and interactive fan promotions to themed nights and long-standing traditions, Stetson Baseball offers something for fans of all ages throughout the 2026 season.
Before the season officially gets underway, Stetson Baseball will welcome fans, supporters and alumni to the annual Dick Westervelt First Pitch Banquet on February 6. The event serves as a celebration of the upcoming season and a chance for the Hatter community to come together ahead of Opening Night, offering fans an inside look at the program and the opportunity to connect with the team.
As part of this year's festivities, attendees will also have the opportunity to take part in a VIP Meet & Greet featuring Major League Baseball standouts Jeremy Peña, Doc Gooden and Darryl Strawberry. Space is limited, and fans are encouraged to register now to secure their spot for one of the most anticipated preseason events on the Stetson Baseball calendar.
Just one week later, the Hatters officially begin the 2026 home schedule on Friday, February 13, as baseball returns to Melching Field at Conrad Park. Opening Night marks the start of another spring of championship-caliber baseball in DeLand, setting the stage for an exciting season filled with marquee matchups, themed promotions and unforgettable moments at one of the nation's premier collegiate ballparks.
Every Stetson home game features a variety of fan-favorite promotions designed to keep fans engaged from the first pitch to the final out. When the Hatters swipe a bag, one randomly selected fan will win a free sandwich coupon as part of the Jimmy John's Freaky Fast Stolen Base of the Game. Fans can also cheer on the pitching staff during the Zaxby's 10+ Strikeout Reward, where a dominant night on the mound earns everyone in attendance a free Zaxby's coupon.
Between innings, the video board comes alive with interactive games such as the Hat Shuffle and Mad Dash, giving fans their moment in the spotlight. During the Jeremiah's Winning Inning, one lucky row will be selected to receive a coupon for Jeremiah's Italian Ice.
One of Melching Field's most cherished traditions continues during the seventh-inning stretch, as the Bleacher Creatures lead the crowd in singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game." Fans can also stop by the marketing table behind home plate to submit their guess for the exact time of the seventh-inning stretch, with correct entries winning a prize.
Music also plays a key role throughout the night. Fans are encouraged to listen closely for Music Trivia, where correctly identifying the featured song and artist can earn a prize at the marketing table. Using the GoHatters App, fans can also vote on which music they want to hear during the game, helping shape the atmosphere at Melching Field.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Friday, February 13 | 6:30 p.m.
Opening Night vs. Minnesota
Baseball is officially back at Melching Field at Conrad Park as the Hatters open the 2026 home schedule under the lights. Fans are encouraged to arrive early, soak in the Opening Night atmosphere and pick up a Stetson Baseball schedule poster while supplies last as the season gets underway in DeLand.
Sunday, February 15 | 2:00 p.m.
vs. St. John's — Presented by Tijuana Flats
Opening weekend continues with an afternoon matchup against St. John's. Fans who were unable to attend Opening Night can still grab a schedule poster while supplies last. Be sure to stop by the Tijuana Flats table near the entrance to Melching Field on your way in.
Tuesday, February 17 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. Florida — DeLand Police Department Night, Presented by Insight Credit Union
A marquee in-state showdown highlights a special night at the ballpark as the DeLand Police Department is recognized on the field prior to first pitch. Insight Credit Union will be tabling near the entrance, adding to the atmosphere as the Hatters host one of college baseball's premier programs.
Friday, February 20 | 6:30 p.m.
Presented by Zaxby's
Friday night baseball returns to Melching Field with Zaxby's on site engaging with fans throughout the evening. Settle in for a night of Hatter baseball and one of the season's early non-conference matchups.
Friday, February 28 | 6:30 p.m.
Presented by Watson Realty
Make it a full day of Hatter athletics in DeLand. Fans are encouraged to catch Stetson Basketball earlier in the day before heading to Melching Field for a primetime baseball matchup. Watson Realty will be tabling at the game as part of the evening's presentation.
Tuesday, March 11 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. Fordham — Bark at the Park
One of the most popular nights of the season returns as fans are invited to bring their four-legged friends to the ballpark. Select fans will receive Stetson-branded dog bandanas, with water stations available near the party patio and The Green. Waste bags will be available at the marketing table.
Friday, March 13 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. North Florida — Anime Night
The first home game following Spring Break brings a unique twist to Melching Field. Anime-style player headshots, themed sound effects and a custom anime hype video create an immersive atmosphere for a high-energy Friday night matchup.
Saturday, March 14 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. North Florida — Military Appreciation Night
The Hatters honor service members during a special Military Appreciation Night. ROTC will present the colors prior to first pitch, and fans can check out Operation Hat Trick merchandise available through the Stetson Bookstore.
Friday, March 20 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. West Georgia — Greek Night / Green Out
Greek Life organizations are invited out to Melching Field as the Hatters host a Green Out. Fans are encouraged to wear green and help create a sea of Hatter pride in the stands, highlighted by a Hatter T-shirt giveaway.
Tuesday, March 24 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. UCF — Superhero Night / Trivia Tuesday
Melching Field transforms into a comic-book atmosphere with superhero-themed player headshots and video board graphics. Fans can test their Marvel and DC knowledge during Trivia Tuesday for Hatter Rewards points and pick up a green superhero cape while supplies last.
Tuesday, March 31 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. Florida State — Presented by Sonny's BBQ
One of Florida's premier rivalries returns to DeLand as the Hatters host Florida State under the lights. Sonny's BBQ will be tabling at the game as part of the night's presentation.
Friday, April 10 | 6:30 p.m.
Video Game Night
Retro vibes take over Melching Field with 8-bit player headshots, video board graphics, sound effects and music throughout the game. Fans can take home an 8-bit Stetson Baseball poster and a custom video game sticker while supplies last.
Tuesday, April 21 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. South Florida — Coaches vs. Cancer, Presented by AdventHealth
A meaningful night at the ballpark supporting an important cause. The evening features Trivia Tuesday, pink ribbon distribution from Zeta Tau Alpha, "Who I Play For" cards available at the marketing table and AdventHealth tabling throughout the game.
Friday, May 1 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. FGCU — Margaritaville Night
Relax and enjoy island vibes as Jimmy Buffett music fills the ballpark. Fans will receive a Stetson-branded Hawaiian shirt while supplies last as Melching Field turns into Margaritaville for the night.
Tuesday, May 5 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. Bethune-Cookman — Cinco de Mayo
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at the ballpark with festive music and themed video board graphics throughout the game, adding extra energy to a key late-season matchup.
Friday, May 8 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. Jacksonville — 9 Innings of Winning
Fans who check in through the Hatter Rewards App will be eligible for inning-by-inning raffles throughout the game, with chances to win Stetson Baseball merchandise, mini bats, baseball cards and more.
Saturday, May 9 | 6:30 p.m.
vs. Jacksonville — Green Out / Senior Night
The regular-season home finale honors the Hatters' seniors. Fans are encouraged to wear green and help send the graduating class off in style during an emotional and memorable night at Melching Field.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters
