Early favorites + dark horses for 2026 WNBA awards
Check out the early favorites and dark horses for the 2026 WNBA awards!
Arkansas baseball coach Dave Van Horn addressed the recent trend of midweek game cancellations by several college teams, including Kentucky. The Wildcats canceled a game against Northern Kentucky due to scheduling challenges and recovery concerns.
What Arkansas baseball coach Dave Van Horn said about country's midweek cancelations
FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas baseball coach Dave Van Horn has a simple philosophy for the hot topic in college baseball.
A handful of teams across the country have canceled midweek games against lesser opponents as the season comes to a close. One of those teams was Kentucky, who the No. 14 Razorbacks (34-18) face for a three-game series beginning Thursday, May 15.
The Wildcats, ranked No. 33 in the RPI, canceled a midweek game against No. 272 Northern Kentucky scheduled for Tuesday, saying it was a mutual decision due to weekend delays and "challenging rest and recovery periods".
All eyes are on the NCAA Tournament, and simply playing a team with a low RPI could damage a résumé in the very-important metric. The cancelations prompted a memo sent from the NCAA to Division I coaches, urging them not to abandon midweek games.
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Kolby Branch (9) fields the ball but holds up on the throw to first during the first inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Ryan Wynn (0) attempts a bunt during the second inning in the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Dave Van Horn shared his thoughts on the trend of midweek game cancellations in college baseball, emphasizing the challenges teams face.
Several teams, including Kentucky, have canceled midweek games against lesser opponents as the season nears its end.
Kentucky canceled the game due to mutual agreement over scheduling delays and concerns regarding rest and recovery for the players.
Arkansas baseball is set to face Kentucky in a three-game series starting Thursday, May 15.
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs pitcher Paul Farley (35) throws a pitch in the first inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs catcher Brennan Hudson (28) hits a fly ball to left field for an out during the second inning in the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Carter Rutenbar (12) fouls off a pitch during the second inning in the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs pitcher Paul Farley (35) throws a pitch during the second inning in the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs utility Henry Allen (22) canÕt make the catch resulting in a double for Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Damian Ruiz (not pictured) during the second inning in the game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Camden Kozeal (8) points after his two run home run in the second inning against the Georgia Bulldogs during game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks starting pitcher Parker Coil (36) throws a pitch during the first inning against the Georgia Bulldogs in the game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs starting pitcher Grant Edwards (32) throws a pitch in the first inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks pitcher Colin Fisher (38) throws a pitch during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs pitcher Matt Scott (10) throws a pitch during the third inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Carter Rutenbar (12) makes a catch for an out during the fourth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs catcher Daniel Jackson (3) rounds third on his way to home during the fourth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Kolby Branch (9) fields the ball and throws to first for an out during the fourth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Ryder Helfrick (27) celebrates after a solo home run in the fourth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs catcher Daniel Jackson (3) slides in safe at home as Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Ryder Helfrick (27) applies the tag late during the fourth inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs catcher Daniel Jackson (3) hits a single during the fourth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Ryder Helfrick (27) hits a home run during the fourth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Rylan Lujo (8) catches the ball for an out during the fourth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Ryan Wynn (0) points as he rounds the bases after a two run home run during the third inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Maika Niu (4) jumps but canÕt make the catch of the home run by Georgia Bulldogs catcher Daniel Jackson (not pictured) during the third inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs utility Henry Allen (22) watches Arkansas Razorbacks pitcher Parker Coil (36) during the third inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Dave Van Horn walks to the mound during the third inning during game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs utility Kenny Ishikawa (14) hits a double during the third inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Damian Ruiz (42) fields the ball during the third inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Brennan Hudson (28) rates his hand after a solo home run during the third inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder TJ Pompey (5) makes a catch for an out during the third inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks pitcher Gabe Gaeckle (20) throws a pitch during the third inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Brennan Hudson (28) makes an out at first base during the second inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks during game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Ryan Wynn (0) dives for the ball but can’t make the play during the fifth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Carter Rutenbar (12) hits a single during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs utility Kenny Ishikawa (14) makes a catch in foul territory for an out during the fifth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Camden Kozeal (8) throws to first base for an out during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Nolan Souza (3) throws to first base for an out during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Camden Kozeal (8) fields the ball but can’t make the throw during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Dave Van Horn yells towards the home umpire during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs catcher Daniel Jackson (3) is safe at second base as Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Nolan Souza (3) loses the ball during the fifth inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Damian Ruiz (42) hits a fly ball for an out during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs utility Kenny Ishikawa (14) makes a catch for an out during the fifth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs head coach Wes Johnson walks out to the mound during the fifth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Camden Kozeal (8) throws to first base for an out during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Brennan Hudson (28) points after his home run during the sixth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Brennan Hudson (28) hits a home run during the sixth inning against Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks fans “call the hogs” during the seventh inning stretch in the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Kolby Branch (9) throws to first base for an out during the sixth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Carter Rutenbar (12) catches the ball to get Georgia Bulldogs infielder Ryan Wynn (0) out during the seventh inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Maika Niu (4) can’t make the catch resulting in a home run for Georgia Bulldogs infielder Brennan Hudson (28) during the sixth inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Damian Ruiz (42) fields the ball between infielder TJ Pompey (5) and infielder Camden Kozeal (8) during the sixth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs pitcher Zach Brown (16) throws a pitch during the seventh inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks pitcher Steele Eaves (13) throws a pitch during the sixth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder TJ Pompey (5) fields the ball and throws to first base for an out during the seventh inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Kolby Branch (9) slides in safe for a stolen base as Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Camden Kozeal (8) can’t make the tag in time during the sixth inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Kolby Branch (9) fields the ball but holds up on the throw to first during the first inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Kolby Branch (9) fields the ball but holds up on the throw to first during the first inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Ryan Wynn (0) attempts a bunt during the second inning in the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs pitcher Paul Farley (35) throws a pitch in the first inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs catcher Brennan Hudson (28) hits a fly ball to left field for an out during the second inning in the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Carter Rutenbar (12) fouls off a pitch during the second inning in the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs pitcher Paul Farley (35) throws a pitch during the second inning in the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs utility Henry Allen (22) canÕt make the catch resulting in a double for Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Damian Ruiz (not pictured) during the second inning in the game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Camden Kozeal (8) points after his two run home run in the second inning against the Georgia Bulldogs during game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks starting pitcher Parker Coil (36) throws a pitch during the first inning against the Georgia Bulldogs in the game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs starting pitcher Grant Edwards (32) throws a pitch in the first inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks pitcher Colin Fisher (38) throws a pitch during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs pitcher Matt Scott (10) throws a pitch during the third inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Carter Rutenbar (12) makes a catch for an out during the fourth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs catcher Daniel Jackson (3) rounds third on his way to home during the fourth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Kolby Branch (9) fields the ball and throws to first for an out during the fourth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Ryder Helfrick (27) celebrates after a solo home run in the fourth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs catcher Daniel Jackson (3) slides in safe at home as Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Ryder Helfrick (27) applies the tag late during the fourth inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs catcher Daniel Jackson (3) hits a single during the fourth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Ryder Helfrick (27) hits a home run during the fourth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Rylan Lujo (8) catches the ball for an out during the fourth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Ryan Wynn (0) points as he rounds the bases after a two run home run during the third inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Maika Niu (4) jumps but canÕt make the catch of the home run by Georgia Bulldogs catcher Daniel Jackson (not pictured) during the third inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs utility Henry Allen (22) watches Arkansas Razorbacks pitcher Parker Coil (36) during the third inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Dave Van Horn walks to the mound during the third inning during game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs utility Kenny Ishikawa (14) hits a double during the third inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Damian Ruiz (42) fields the ball during the third inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Brennan Hudson (28) rates his hand after a solo home run during the third inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder TJ Pompey (5) makes a catch for an out during the third inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks pitcher Gabe Gaeckle (20) throws a pitch during the third inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Brennan Hudson (28) makes an out at first base during the second inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks during game at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Ryan Wynn (0) dives for the ball but can’t make the play during the fifth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Carter Rutenbar (12) hits a single during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs utility Kenny Ishikawa (14) makes a catch in foul territory for an out during the fifth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Camden Kozeal (8) throws to first base for an out during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Nolan Souza (3) throws to first base for an out during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Camden Kozeal (8) fields the ball but can’t make the throw during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Dave Van Horn yells towards the home umpire during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs catcher Daniel Jackson (3) is safe at second base as Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Nolan Souza (3) loses the ball during the fifth inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Damian Ruiz (42) hits a fly ball for an out during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs utility Kenny Ishikawa (14) makes a catch for an out during the fifth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs head coach Wes Johnson walks out to the mound during the fifth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Camden Kozeal (8) throws to first base for an out during the fifth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Brennan Hudson (28) points after his home run during the sixth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Brennan Hudson (28) hits a home run during the sixth inning against Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks fans “call the hogs” during the seventh inning stretch in the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Kolby Branch (9) throws to first base for an out during the sixth inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks catcher Carter Rutenbar (12) catches the ball to get Georgia Bulldogs infielder Ryan Wynn (0) out during the seventh inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Maika Niu (4) can’t make the catch resulting in a home run for Georgia Bulldogs infielder Brennan Hudson (28) during the sixth inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks outfielder Damian Ruiz (42) fields the ball between infielder TJ Pompey (5) and infielder Camden Kozeal (8) during the sixth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs pitcher Zach Brown (16) throws a pitch during the seventh inning against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks pitcher Steele Eaves (13) throws a pitch during the sixth inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks infielder TJ Pompey (5) fields the ball and throws to first base for an out during the seventh inning against the Georgia Bulldogs at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 18, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Georgia Bulldogs infielder Kolby Branch (9) slides in safe for a stolen base as Arkansas Razorbacks infielder Camden Kozeal (8) can’t make the tag in time during the sixth inning at Baum-Walker Stadium. Georgia won 26-14. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
"It is not the intent or spirit of the game to adjust scheduled games in an attempt to strategically impact selection data or metrics," the memo said.
Van Horn doesn't have such a predicament.
"To each their own. I probably don't want to say a whole lot. Don't schedule if you don't think you're going to play," Van Horn said.
The Arkansas coach has lived by that motto since the 2017 season. That was the last time the Hogs played a midweek game before the final series of the regular season. Coincidentally, that was also the last time the Razorbacks missed out on the NCAA Tournament.
Not having to worry about an RPI drop is an added bonus, but Van Horn has other logic for avoiding a late non-conference game.
"It's almost a trap game. Whatever you're situation is going into the last weekend, it's always a Thursday-Friday game, so if you play Tuesday at home you're still getting up the next day scrambling and getting out of town," Van Horn said. "If you're at home, maybe it's a little more time to relax, but I just think your mind is thinking, 'last series, tournament, regional'. So I just don't schedule them."
Other recent cancellations aside from Kentucky were No. 20 Oregon vs. No. 212 Grand Canyon, No. 42 NC State vs. No. 279 NC A&T and No. 35 Miami vs. No. 22 Florida International.
Van Horn announced during a press conference on Wednesday, May 13, that the Hogs would once again keep its final two spots in the weekend rotation TBA to face Kentucky.
Hunter Dietz will get the ball in Game 1, but the Razorbacks are taking a game-by-game approach with their pitching staff. Gabe Gaeckle and Cole Gibler have logged starts in each of the past two weekends, but they could come out of the bullpen against the Wildcats.
Van Horn hinted that Gaeckle would likely start Game 2 on Friday unless he is called upon to pitch in the series opener. Gibler might be making a return to the bullpen.
"I want to see him come out of the pen and see how that goes," Van Horn said.
Arkansas' senior first baseman has not played since a midweek game against Northwestern State on April 29 due to a knee injury, but Van Horn said Robinett will be on the Hogs' weekend roster vs. the Wildcats.
He will wear a brace on the knee, but his availability is still up in the air. Arkansas will see how he looks during a workout at Kentucky Proud Park on Wednesday night.
Freshman utility man Carter Rutenbar has earned most of the starts at first base with Robinett sidelined.
Jackson Fuller covers Arkansas football, basketball and baseball for the Southwest Times Record, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at jfuller@usatodayco.com or follow him @jacksonfuller16on X, formerly known as Twitter.
This article originally appeared on Fort Smith Times Record: What Arkansas baseball coach Dave Van Horn said about canceled midweek games