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College | Story | 2/19/2025

DIII Initial Top 25

Nick Herfordt

Photo: (James T Van Rensselaer)

As the 2025 NCAA Division III baseball season approaches, anticipation is at an all-time high. Several powerhouse programs return with loaded rosters, while new contenders emerge, eager to make their mark on the national stage. The upcoming season promises an exciting mix of established dominance and fresh competition, as teams battle for regional supremacy and a shot at the coveted College World Series crown.

Misericordia enters the season as the defending national champion after a remarkable 2024 campaign that saw them overcome an early-season slump to capture their first title. However, with the departure of several key players, the Cougars face an uphill battle in their quest to repeat. Their championship rivals, Wisconsin-Whitewater, along with perennial powerhouses like Eastern Connecticut and Rowan, will be looking to reclaim national glory with experienced rosters and deep pitching staffs.

Several teams are poised for breakthrough seasons, including Coe College, Centre, and Emory, each of whom return a wealth of offensive talent and strong pitching rotations. Coe, fresh off an impressive ARC title run, looks to build on its momentum with seven returning position players and a formidable rotation. Centre, which made its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance last year, is eager to continue rewriting its record books behind two-way star Ben Prather. Meanwhile, Emory, a former College World Series regular, appears ready to return to prominence with a seasoned lineup and a trio of battle-tested starting pitchers.

With experienced veterans, promising newcomers, and a season full of potential upsets and standout performances, the 2025 NCAA Division III baseball season is set to deliver thrilling action from opening day to the final out of the national championship. As teams take the field, all eyes will be on which programs can rise to the occasion and etch their names into history.

Rank	School	State	2024 Record	Final 2024
1	Johns Hopkins Blue Jays	MD	35-11	7
2	Endicott Gulls	MA	47-4	2
3	UW-Whitewater Warhawks	WI	45-12	3
4	Lynchburg Hornets	VA	37-17	5
5	Salve Regina Seahawks	RI	40-10	4
6	Denison Big Red	OH	42-8	6
7	Pomona-Pitzer Sagehens	CA	37-14	10
8	Salisbury Seagulls	MD	32-12	9
9	Case Western Reserve Spartans	OH	33-11	11
10	East Texas Baptist Tigers	TX	39-10	8
11	UW LaCrosse Eagles	WI	36-16	16
12	Baldwin Wallace Yellow Jackets	OH	36-10	14
13	Cortland State Red Dragons	NY	31-14-1	18
14	Randolph-Macon Yellow Jackets	VA	33-16	13
15	Claremont-Mudd-Scripps Stags	CA	32-15	NR
16	Christopher Newport Captains	VA	29-12	15
17	La Verne Leopards	CA	30-16-1	17
18	Penn State Harrisburg Lions	PA	35-11	23
19	Babson Beavers	MA	30-13	25
20	Eastern Connecticut St. Warriors	CT	29-15	NR
21	Rowan Profs	NJ	29-15	20
22	Coe Kohawks	IA	31-16	NR
23	Misericordia Cougars	PA	44-11	1
24	Centre Colonels	KY	36-13	NR
25	Emory Eagles	GA	23-15-1	NR

1. JOHNS HOPKINS BLUE JAYS (35-11)

Last season, the Blue Jays entered as the overwhelming preseason favorite to capture the title. However, after a 10-6 start, their chances of returning to the DIII College World Series—where they had finished as the runner-up in 2023—seemed slim. Nevertheless, the Jays turned their season around and performed as expected for the remainder of the year. They lost just three more games during the regular season, securing both the Centennial Conference regular-season and tournament titles. In dominant fashion, JHU scored double-digit runs in each of their six games during the conference tournament and NCAA Regional, averaging an astounding 17.5 runs per game. Their postseason momentum was halted in the Super Regionals, where they faced Endicott, whose pitching staff led DIII in ERA. Endicott limited JHU to just seven runs across two games, ending their season. With their potent offense and superb pitching staff, the Blue Jays are well-positioned for another deep postseason run in 2025. With their talent and experience, look for the Blue Jays to fulfill last season’s top team prognostication a year later than originally scheduled.

The Blue Jays return six of seven everyday players who started at least 40 games, ensuring they will once again be an offensive powerhouse. Graduate catcher Caleb Cyr ranked fourth in DIII with 20 home runs, batting .341 with 10 doubles and an impressive .899 slugging percentage. Third baseman Shawn Steuerer led the team with a .363 average and contributed 17 home runs of his own. Outfielder Alex Shane slashed .339/.441/.630, collecting 56 hits, 13 doubles, and 11 home runs. First baseman Dillon Souvignier started 44 games, batting .322 with eight home runs. Shortstop Dylan Whitney and second baseman Jimmy Stevens add further strength to the lineup. Whitney, a key presence at the top of the order, hit .339 with 12 doubles and seven home runs. Stevens, returning as a graduate, batted .308 with seven home runs.

Few teams, if any, boast the level of returning talent that the Blue Jays have this season. Graduate students Kieren Collins and Quinn Rovner provide the team with an excellent pair of experienced starters. Collins, now in his sixth season at JHU, has compiled a 3.18 ERA over 237 ⅔ innings with 195 strikeouts. Rovner, who pitched at Muhlenberg for three seasons before transferring in 2024, posted a 3.90 ERA in 57 ⅔ innings last season. Senior Matt Savedoff, though his numbers declined last season, has proven his ability to pitch in high-pressure situations. In 2023, he recorded a 3.00 ERA over 69 innings with 70 strikeouts. The bullpen is also in excellent shape, featuring reliable arms such as William Boneno, Bearden Awadzi, and Tyler Sugrim. Boneno led the team with 17 appearances, finishing with a 3.37 ERA in 34 ⅔ innings. Awadzi split time between starting and relief duties, registering a 4.24 ERA in 34 innings. Sugrim, now in his fourth season, struck out 22 batters in 20 ⅔ innings while allowing just 14 hits.

2. ENDICOTT GULLS (47-4)

The Gulls maintained a top-three national ranking throughout the entire season and entered the postseason as the number one team in the country. Endicott College posted an impressive 38-2 regular-season record and swept through the Commonwealth Coast Conference (CCC) Championship, securing their third consecutive conference title. Their dominance continued as they won every game in both the Regional and Super Regional rounds, earning a trip to the DIII College World Series for the second straight season. However, their championship hopes fell short in Eastlake, Ohio, where they lost two out of three games, ending their season earlier than anticipated. Despite the setback, the Gulls set a program record with a nation-best 47 wins and earned their first-ever number-one ranking.

A significant portion of last year’s roster returns, but the team will be without slugger Brendan O’Neil, who led the squad with 17 home runs—eight more than any other teammate. However, the Gulls still boast a formidable lineup led by key returning players Danny MacDougall, TJ Liponis, and Joey Frammartino. MacDougall, a two-time All-CCC first baseman, started every game last season, hitting .309 with 14 doubles and nine home runs. His 48 stolen bases led all of DIII baseball. Liponis, another staple in the lineup, batted .307 with 15 doubles, five triples, and six home runs while earning regional recognition for his defensive prowess at shortstop. Frammartino, the team's leadoff hitter, provided consistency at the plate with a .341 average and a .475 on-base percentage, aided by 32 walks and 14 hit-by-pitches. Third baseman Robbie Wladkowski, a multiple-time All-CCC honoree, contributed both offensively and defensively, batting .271 with 13 doubles. Outfielder Brenden Walsh showed promise as a freshman, hitting .263 in 41 games, including 22 starts.

On the mound, the Gulls return an elite trio of starting pitchers in John Connolly, Nicholas Cannata, and Charlie Hale. Connolly posted a 3.13 ERA over 72 innings, allowing just 46 hits while striking out 69 batters. Cannata finished the year with a 2.33 ERA and recorded 52 strikeouts in 65 ⅔ innings, with each pitcher completing two games. Hale excelled in his freshman campaign, compiling a 3.27 ERA with 58 strikeouts in 52 ⅓ innings. The bullpen remains one of the team's strengths, featuring three accomplished junior relievers. Kyan Bagshaw led the team with 22 appearances, recording a 1.93 ERA while earning four wins and four saves. Brady Stuart provided electric strikeout numbers, fanning 56 batters in 40 innings. Evan Scully was remarkably efficient, allowing only 24 hits and four walks in 30 ⅓ innings, resulting in an elite 0.92 WHIP.

3. UW-WHITEWATER WARHAWKS (45-12)

Despite losing their final two games of the regular season, UW-Whitewater cruised to the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) regular-season title. Their dominance continued in the WIAC Tournament, where they swept their competition to claim the program’s eighth tournament championship. The Warhawks carried that momentum into the NCAA Tournament, winning three more games to advance to the Super Regionals against UW-La Crosse. After dropping the opening game of the best-of-three series, UWW responded with back-to-back wins to secure a spot in the DIII College World Series. A loss to Salve Regina in their second game put them on the brink of elimination, but they battled back with three straight victories, including a dramatic comeback from five runs down late against a determined Birmingham-Southern team, to reach the championship series. Though they ultimately fell to Misericordia in the final, the Warhawks matched the program record for wins in a season while setting new marks for hits, runs, total bases, and strikeouts. With their potent offense, they are poised to be a national contender once again, even if they face challenges on the mound.

The Warhawks return all but one starting position player from a lineup that led NCAA DIII in total bases last season and slugged .542 as a team. Adam Cootway, limited to 29 games last season, was a dominant force in 2023, when he hit .477 with 13 doubles, five triples, and 15 home runs for a staggering .933 slugging percentage. Senior outfielder Matt Scolan enters his fourth full season with the team after hitting .409 with 18 home runs and 18 stolen bases last year. First baseman Eli Frank led the Warhawks with a .419 batting average and 20 doubles while also blasting 15 home runs. In addition to his offensive prowess, Frank made five starts on the mound, striking out 29 batters in 23 ⅔ innings. Second baseman Andy Thies contributed with a .371 average, 12 doubles, 15 home runs, and a team-high 19 stolen bases. Catcher Aaron Holland, who hit .325 as a freshman while batting leadoff, also returns to strengthen an already formidable lineup.

On the mound, UWW will need to replace its WIAC Pitcher of the Year, who transferred to Arizona, but they still return three experienced starters. Jack Hagan, last season’s WIAC First/Newcomer of the Year, was impressive as a freshman, posting a 3.45 ERA over 75 ⅔ innings while allowing 72 hits and striking out 61 batters. Max Huseboe, entering his fifth year with the Warhawks, provides another seasoned arm. He made 16 appearances, including 11 starts, finishing with a 4.68 ERA and 61 strikeouts over 65 ⅓ innings while issuing just nine walks. The bullpen will once again feature reliable returners Logan Eisenbarth, Cade Hansen, and Ethan Wickman. Eisenbarth led the team with 17 appearances and has a career 4.33 ERA over 60 ⅓ innings. Hansen made 14 appearances, striking out 32 batters in 33 ⅓ innings with a 4.59 ERA. Wickman limited opponents to a .216 batting average over 13 ⅔ innings while posting a 3.29 ERA. Third baseman Danny Hopper, who hit .371 with 12 stolen bases, also proved to be a valuable bullpen asset, making eight appearances and earning two saves with a 2.89 ERA.

4. LYNCHBURG HORNETS (37-17)

Last season, the Hornets finished fourth in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) regular-season standings but surged through the postseason, sweeping their way to the conference championship title. Lynchburg continued its dominance in the NCAA Regional and Super Regional, advancing to the NCAA Championship without a single loss. In pursuit of their second national title in program history—and aiming to become the first team since 2011-12 to win back-to-back championships—the Hornets fell just one game short of the national championship series. With a strong core of returning players for the 2025 season, Lynchburg is poised to make another deep run in the tournament.

The Hornets’ offense will once again be a strength, led by centerfielder Quinn Madden, who paced the team with a .333 batting average and 11 home runs while also leading in doubles with 15. Second baseman Benton Jones followed closely with a .330 average, drawing 48 walks and 13 HBPs to finish with an impressive .486 OB%. Jones also contributed speed on the basepaths, swiping 14 bases. Third baseman Gavin Collins enters his fifth season as a starter and remains a key piece of the lineup after hitting .292 with seven home runs last year. Shortstop Brandon Garcia will continue to be a dynamic leadoff hitter, boasting a .450 OB% while stealing 29 bases last season. Eric Hiett and Joe Munitz add further depth and experience to the lineup. Hiett hit .318, while Munitz impressed as a freshman, batting .328 over 122 at-bats.

Despite losing their top pitcher from last season, Lynchburg still returns a talented group of arms. Nick Mattfield, a four-year starter, threw 86 innings last season with a 3.56 ERA, striking out 72 batters while allowing 76 hits. Colin McGuire made an immediate impact as a freshman, leading the team with 26 appearances, including nine starts and four saves, logging a total of 62 ⅔ innings. The bullpen will be anchored by experienced relievers Logan Tapman and Mason McDowell. Tapman posted a 3.56 ERA over 48 innings in 19 appearances, while McDowell was equally effective, throwing 32 innings across 22 outings and holding opponents to a .231 batting average.

5. SALVE REGINA SEAHAWKS (40-10)

The Seahawks lived up to high expectations in 2024, advancing to the DIII College World Series for the first time in program history. They secured two wins in Eastlake before being eliminated by UW-Whitewater, finishing just one victory shy of reaching the championship series. Along the way, the Seahawks set a new program record with 40 wins and celebrated winning the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) regular-season title in their first year in the league. With Head Coach Eric Cirella returning the bulk of his offensive lineup, each of his top three starting pitchers, and two invaluable relievers, Salve Regina enters the 2025 season as a strong favorite to make another deep postseason run.

While their leading hitter from last season has moved on to DI Bryant, the Seahawks return six position players who started at least 28 games. Second baseman Christian Homa has been a consistent offensive force, posting a .420 average and .500 OB% over two seasons at Salve Regina. Last year, he was second on the team in batting average while adding 16 doubles and four home runs. Evan O’Rourke will also be entering his third year with the Seahawks, having hit .359 in 251 at-bats over the past two seasons. He also swiped 18 bases last year. Graduate outfielder Hunter Yaworski made an immediate impact in his first season after transferring from Mitchell, batting .385 and tying for the team lead with six home runs. Centerfielder Brandon Glover, now in his fourth season, hit .308 and led the team with 25 stolen bases. Will McCarthy returns as the team’s third baseman after hitting .311, while Tyler Petrosino posted a .451 OB% and stole 21 bases.

On the mound, the Seahawks boast one of the top pitching staffs in DIII. Sean Mulligan was named NEWMAC Pitcher of the Year after leading the league in nearly every major statistical category. He finished the season with a dominant 2.10 ERA, three complete games, and a .192 opponent batting average. In 94 ⅓ innings, he struck out 96 batters while allowing just 66 hits. Joe DeRienzo and Brayden Clark also return after combining for 26 starts last season. DeRienzo posted a 3.23 ERA in his first full season, striking out 67 batters while issuing just 16 walks over 61 ⅓ innings. Clark made 14 starts and finished with a 4.33 ERA, despite surrendering 88 hits in 68 ⅔ innings. The bullpen remains a major strength, anchored by Jason Arrigo and Kyle Carozza. Arrigo was electric last season, striking out 65 batters in 53 ⅓ innings across 22 appearances. In 2023, he posted an incredible 0.84 ERA in 10 outings. Carozza, meanwhile, was one of the most dominant closers in DIII, ranking second nationally with 11 saves. He posted a 1.74 ERA over 31 innings, allowing just 20 hits for a .180 opponent batting average.

6. DENNISON BIG RED (42-8)

Denison lived up to its preseason billing as a national contender in 2024, delivering the best season in program history. The Big Red set a new school record with 42 wins, claimed a share of the North Atlantic Athletic Conference (NCAC) regular-season title, and captured the NCAC Tournament trophy for the fifth consecutive year. They stormed through the NCAA Regional with three dominant wins but ultimately fell to Birmingham-Southern in the Super Regionals. With a loaded lineup and a deep, experienced pitching staff that posted a stellar 3.80 team ERA (15th in DIII), Denison is poised for another deep postseason run in 2025.

Leading the way is two-time All-American outfielder Eric Colaco, who set multiple school records last season. He started all 50 games and led the team in every major offensive category, slashing .420/.513/.703. His 28 doubles, 79 runs, and 42 stolen bases were all program bests. He’ll be joined by a strong supporting cast of returners. Leadoff hitter Jack Lutte made an immediate impact as a freshman, batting .407. Third baseman Cade Nowik hit .335, while centerfielder Erik Sundgren stole 27 bases and batted .291. Outfielder Jake Blozy, who transferred from Oberlin College, also contributed with a .288 average in 118 at-bats.

On the mound, the Big Red return several key arms, including two workhorses in Will Rettig and Peter Lemke. Rettig led the team with a 3.23 ERA among qualified pitchers, striking out 66 batters over 71 ⅓ innings. Lemke was a reliable starter as a freshman, throwing 65 ⅓ innings with a 3.58 ERA and 55 strikeouts. Nick Falter, who started seven games, also returns after posting a 2.54 ERA in 71 innings in 2023. The bullpen remains a strength, with Robbie Lee, Manny Nager, and Michael Gray all back after throwing at least 30 innings last season. Lee made 17 appearances, including four starts, as a freshman. Nager was a reliable option in 20 appearances, allowing just 25 hits over 34 innings. Gray recorded 37 strikeouts in 30 innings while holding opponents to a .204 batting average. Senior Ryan Star will also be a major weapon after a breakout season in which he posted a 1.44 ERA, striking out 39 batters in 25 innings while allowing just 14 hits.

7. POMONA-PITZER SAGEHENS (37-14)

The Sagehens had a historic 2024 season, setting a new program-high for wins and making their first-ever trip to the DIII College World Series. They kicked off the year with a road series win over highly ranked East Texas Baptist and never looked back, finishing the regular season 17-7 in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC). Their offense exploded in the conference tournament, scoring 49 runs in three games to claim their first-ever SCIAC tournament title. After dispatching Willamette in NCAA Regional play, they returned to Texas and once again took down ETBU to punch their ticket to the CWS. Though they fell in both of their games in Ohio, the season was a landmark achievement for the program.

Pomona-Pitzer brings back three of its top four hitters for 2025, but the lineup will miss the presence of the SCIAC Athlete of the Year and All-American who graduated. Outfielder JC Ng, however, returns after earning All-American honors with a .424 batting average, 12 doubles, two triples, nine home runs, and 14 stolen bases. Greg Pierantoni showed tremendous potential as a freshman, batting .370 while starting all 50 games at shortstop and finishing the year on a 20-game hit streak. Pierantoni and second baseman William Kinney turned 30 double plays together, with Kinney also hitting .344 and stealing seven bases. Jack Gold had a strong all-around season, batting .294 but reaching base at a .483 clip thanks to 46 walks and 18 HBPs. He also added 13 doubles, 10 home runs, and 10 stolen bases. Third baseman Jimmy Legg, a career .307 hitter over three seasons, returns, while Cooper Berry, who hit .364 over the summer in the New York Collegiate League, could see an expanded role after limited action last season.

The pitching staff is led by one of the best one-two punches in DIII in Jake Hinton and Hannoh Seo. Hinton was named SCIAC Pitcher of the Year after posting a 2.94 ERA and striking out 94 batters over 95 innings. Seo was just as dominant, if not better, leading the team with 98 strikeouts in 87 innings while holding opponents to a .211 batting average and compiling a 2.48 ERA. Both pitchers made 16 starts. Ethan Collins, another key arm, struck out 58 batters in 46 ⅔ innings over 10 starts, though his ERA was skewed by a tough early-season outing. The bullpen will need new contributors to step up following the departure of NCAA DIII appearances leader Eric Prough. Wade Lawson is a strong candidate for the closer role after posting a 3.49 ERA in 15 relief appearances. Max Brunngraber, who saw limited action last season, is expected to take on a larger role, while freshman Will Polishuk will also get opportunities on the mound.

8. SALISBURY SEAGULLS (32-12)

Salisbury remained one of DIII baseball’s premier programs in 2024, continuing a remarkable run of success. Since capturing their first national championship in 2021, the Gulls have consistently been a title contender, reaching the DIII College World Series in 2022 and 2023. They appeared poised for another trip to the final eight last season, but Salve Regina edged them out in two tightly contested Super Regional games. Despite the early exit, Salisbury still reached the 30-win mark for the seventh consecutive season, finishing with a 32-12 record. However, the lineup took a hit in the offseason, as only four players who started at least 25 games return for 2025.

Leading the charge is centerfielder Andrew Kell, one of the most decorated players in program history. The senior was outstanding in 2024, batting .444 with 17 doubles, two triples, and six home runs while posting a stellar .545 OB% thanks to 39 combined walks and HBPs. He also swiped 13 bases. First baseman Danny Sheeler is another key returner, having earned conference and regional honors for his performance. In two seasons at Salisbury, Sheeler has compiled a .380 average with 21 home runs. Dylan Winebrenner made an immediate impact last season after transferring from DI programs Iona and George Mason, hitting .365 with 18 extra-base hits. Shortstop Trent Waire showed immense potential as a freshman, batting .337 while providing steady defense, and could develop into the Gulls’ next star.

On the mound, Salisbury returns a formidable group of pitchers capable of keeping the team competitive even if the offense takes time to gel. Sophomores Ethan Hirschfeld and Aidan Brinsfield lead the rotation after strong freshman campaigns. Hirschfeld posted a 3.58 ERA over 55 ⅓ innings, limiting opponents to a .227 batting average, while Brinsfield led the team with 59 ⅔ innings pitched, striking out 56 batters with just 16 walks. Brinsfield, a local product, played high school ball just minutes from Salisbury’s campus. Veteran right-hander Tyler Villa, who started on opening day last season, adds another experienced arm. He has a career 3.47 ERA over 72 ⅔ innings in two seasons.

The bullpen is anchored by Cole Williams and Garrett Beaver, two crucial arms who will be counted on heavily. Williams was named the Coast-to-Coast Conference Rookie of the Year after finishing ninth in DIII with 24 appearances. He posted a 3.57 ERA and struck out 43 batters in 53 innings. Beaver was equally impressive, recording a team-leading three saves with a 3.00 ERA over 42 innings.

9. CASE WESTERN RESERVE SPARTANS (33-11)

Case Western Reserve University had a historic season in 2024, advancing to the NCAA postseason for the second consecutive year and seventh time overall. The Spartans also captured their fifth University Athletic Association (UAA) title and matched the second-most wins in program history. With nearly their entire offense returning, along with the majority of their top pitchers, CWRU is poised for another deep postseason run. They are strong contenders to make their third straight NCAA Tournament appearance and potentially set a new school record for wins.

Leading the charge at the plate is 6-foot-8 slugger Dan Camphausen, who made an immediate impact after transferring from Wooster. A two-time All-NCAC honoree, Camphausen batted .408 while setting a new school record with 13 home runs. He finished the season on an 18-game hitting streak and ranks eighth among active DIII players in career home runs. Catcher Jack Anderson, the first player in program history to earn All-American honors twice, was named UAA Position Player of the Year after hitting .419 with 18 doubles and three home runs. He also made a mark on the mound, recording six saves with a 1.08 ERA in eight relief appearances.

Veteran outfielder Nick Harms returns after posting a .303 career average with 31 home runs in 115 games. Leadoff hitter Logan Andreyko provides a disciplined approach at the plate, batting .352 with a .473 OB% thanks to a team-leading 33 walks. Cornell transfer Franco Alonso proved to be a key addition last year, contributing at multiple defensive positions while hitting .324 with five home runs. Fifth-year player Zack Carinci boasts a career .350 average over 148 games. Tyler Stillson, who hit .316 as a freshman, offers versatility both at the plate and on the mound, where he made six starts. Sophomore shortstop Nate Arterburn also returns to the lineup.

The Spartans’ pitching staff is headlined by Quinn Saunders, who was dominant as a freshman. He struck out 79 batters in 46 innings over nine starts, finishing with a 3.52 ERA while holding opponents to a .207 batting average. His 15.4 strikeouts per nine innings ranked second in the nation. Archer Stankowski also returns after making 10 starts last season, tallying 49 strikeouts in 50 innings with a 5.40 ERA.

Kyle Gearding looks to bounce back after his ERA rose last season, but he previously posted a solid 3.31 mark in 2023 while starting 10 games and throwing 54 ⅓ innings. Jackson Brewer was a reliable bullpen arm, recording a 3.60 ERA in 15 appearances and striking out 44 batters in 45 innings. Zach Barnes showed promise as a freshman, striking out 23 batters in 22 ⅔ innings with a 4.76 ERA. Freshman Charlie Griffith could compete for a spot in the rotation.

10. EAST TEXAS BAPTIST TIGERS (39-10)

East Texas Baptist University entered the 2024 season as the second-ranked team in the country and held the No. 1 ranking for a few weeks. The Tigers dominated the American Southwest Conference (ASC) regular season, finishing with an incredible 23-1 record. However, they faltered slightly in the conference tournament, going 2-2, before regaining their momentum with a dominant sweep in regional play. Their season ultimately ended in the Super Regionals with two close losses at home to Pomona-Pitzer. Despite the early postseason exit, ETBU finished with 39 wins, the second most in program history, and at one point strung together 18 consecutive victories—all while missing their top slugger due to injury.

The Tigers’ lineup will be even more potent this season with the return of Ben Lea, who missed most of last season but was a force in 2023. That year, he posted an absurd .409 batting average with 24 home runs, 13 doubles, three triples, and 11 stolen bases. Lea will anchor the heart of the order alongside fellow power hitters Dylan Burnaman and Connor Massimini. Burnaman, the team’s shortstop, led ETBU in batting last year with a .358 average, while Massimini hit .354 and launched seven home runs.

First baseman Hunter Rumachik adds speed and consistency, batting .318 with 13 stolen bases last season. Catcher Nicolas Chavez provides stability behind the plate and pop at the plate, finishing 2024 with a .310 average and 10 home runs. Transfer Nathan Harmon from Dodge City CC brings versatility after hitting .290 and pitching in eight games. Another major addition is graduate transfer Luke Finn, a two-time All-ASC selection at UT Dallas, who should provide a veteran presence in the lineup.

While ETBU’s offense looks formidable, the pitching staff enters 2025 with some concerns. The Tigers lost their top starter and closer from last season, leaving them with an unproven staff outside of two key returners.

Jagger Neely has been one of the team’s most reliable arms, and he’s coming off another strong season in which he posted a 3.66 ERA with 89 strikeouts over 86 innings. Landy Powell was excellent as a freshman, appearing in 13 games (nine starts) while striking out 50 batters in just 36 ⅔ innings with a 3.44 ERA. He also held opponents to a .222 batting average.

Beyond Neely and Powell, the rest of the staff is largely inexperienced, with no other returning pitchers logging more than 20 innings last season. One key newcomer is Tyler Bogusz, a transfer from Blinn College, where he helped his team win the 2024 NJCAA DI national championship. He will likely get an opportunity to step into a starting role immediately.

The Tigers should again be one of the top teams in DIII, with an explosive offense led by a healthy Ben Lea and a deep supporting cast. The biggest question mark is the pitching depth, but if Neely and Powell can lead the rotation and some new arms step up, ETBU has the potential to make another deep postseason run.

11. UW LACROSSE EAGLES (36-16)

Wisconsin-La Crosse had another outstanding campaign in 2024, winning both the WIAC regular season and tournament titles while battling conference rival UW-Whitewater, the eventual national runner-up. The Eagles pushed the Warhawks to the brink in Super Regional play, winning the opening game of the best-of-three series before dropping the next two. Despite the heartbreaking finish, UWL matched a school record with 36 wins and reached the Super Regional for the second straight year. With a deep and experienced lineup returning, combined with a solid pitching staff, the Eagles are poised for another strong season and could make a push for their first-ever DIII College World Series appearance.

The Eagles’ offense will be one of the most potent in Division III this season, with eight of their top nine hitters back in the lineup. Chris Vanden Heuvel led the team with a .392 batting average, adding 14 doubles and 10 home runs. Mac Born hit .368 while becoming the program’s all-time home run leader after belting 15 last season. Jack Olver set the school record for career doubles, leading the team with 20 last year while batting .344. George Seaman earned conference and regional honors after hitting .322 with 13 doubles and 18 home runs. Anthony Vivian posted a .343 average with 16 doubles, 12 home runs, and a .663 slugging percentage, making him a major offensive weapon. Speedy center fielder Nate Witte also returns, providing a spark at the top of the lineup after batting .343 with eight home runs and 24 stolen bases. With so much firepower returning, UWL should have one of the most dangerous lineups in the nation.

While the Eagles' offense will grab headlines, their pitching staff could be just as crucial to their success. Isaiah Katz, the team's ace, made 12 starts in 15 appearances, leading the team with 75 ⅓ innings pitched. His 5.38 ERA was inflated compared to his 2023 WIAC Pitcher of the Year campaign, when he posted a 3.54 ERA and struck out 76 batters in 81 ⅓ innings, but he has the talent to return to that level. Owen Deprez is a breakout candidate after striking out 74 batters in just 49 ⅔ innings while holding opponents to a .233 average. He started six games in 14 appearances and finished with a 4.71 ERA. Caleb Matl, UWL’s all-time leader in pitching appearances with 58, will anchor the bullpen after making 20 relief outings last season and finishing with a 3.63 ERA. Tucker Bouche was another key bullpen piece, posting a 4.50 ERA in 20 outings over 24 innings. The biggest question mark for the Eagles is finding a reliable third starter, but their bullpen depth should help mitigate any concerns.

With an elite offense and a capable pitching staff, UWL has all the pieces needed to contend for a national title. If the rotation holds up and the bullpen continues to deliver, the Eagles could break through to their first-ever DIII College World Series

12. BALDWIN WALLACE YELLOW JACKETS (36-10)

After finishing third at the 2023 DIII College World Series, Baldwin Wallace continued its winning tradition in 2024. The Yellow Jackets dominated the regular season, solidifying their place in the top ten of the national rankings while capturing the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) regular-season title with a 15-3 record. They added to their accolades by winning the OAC Tournament as well. However, despite earning the right to host a Regional, BW's season came to an abrupt end as they suffered back-to-back losses to Penn State Behrend and Catholic, cutting their postseason run short.

Senior outfielder Joey Marousek played a key role at the top of the lineup, leading the team with a .351 batting average from the leadoff spot while stealing 23 bases. He could be even more dynamic this season as he continues regaining his baseball form after spending three years as a backup quarterback at the University of Akron. Mally Kilbane provided plenty of pop in the lineup, leading the team in slugging with a .349 average, 15 doubles, three triples, and three home runs. He also posted a stellar .486 OBP, aided by an impressive 23 hit-by-pitches. Centerfielder Dennis Ritlinger-Nirider contributed both offensively and defensively, hitting .328 with 12 doubles and seven stolen bases. Brandon Gelpi and Matt Terzola also return to the lineup. Gelpi, who previously played two seasons at DI Illinois-Chicago, batted .286 last season, while Terzola, a two-year starter at shortstop, remains a steady presence in the infield.

On the mound, the Yellow Jackets boast a strong pitching staff led by OAC Pitcher of the Year Tyler Walker. Walker logged 70 ⅔ innings while holding opponents to a .238 average, striking out 57 batters with just 19 walks. Vince Dolcmaschio provided consistency, making 12 starts in 16 appearances and striking out 64 batters over 76 ⅔ innings with a 4.23 ERA and only 14 walks. Matt Moscarino showed promise as a freshman, limiting opposing hitters to a .246 average in 33 ⅓ innings across 11 appearances, including five starts. The bullpen is anchored by sophomore closer Jake Heatherington, who was dominant in his first collegiate season. In 19 appearances, he threw 42 ⅓ innings, allowing just 26 hits while striking out 43. He finished the year with a 2.55 ERA and a 1.09 WHIP. Dylan Snyder and Brit Kostura also return to bolster the staff. Snyder posted a 2.57 ERA in 14 innings, while Kostura appeared in seven games with a 2.45 ERA.

Baldwin Wallace has all the pieces to make another deep postseason run in 2025. If they can build upon last season’s success and avoid another early exit in Regionals, the Yellow Jackets could find themselves competing for a return to the DIII College World Series.

13. SUNY CORTLAND RED DRAGONS (31-14-1)

The 2024 season was a bit of a rollercoaster for the Dragons, but in the end, it was another successful year for the long-time DIII powerhouse. Head Coach Joe Brown put together a grueling non-conference schedule, featuring multiple ranked opponents and a challenging trip to California to take on some of the best teams in the West. That brutal early stretch left Cortland with a 6-8-1 record, but it also prepared them for the rest of the season. The Dragons rebounded in dominant fashion, going 25-8 down the stretch and extending their streak of NCAA Tournament appearances to an impressive 31 consecutive seasons. With much of their offense returning, along with two outstanding starting pitchers, Cortland is well-positioned to make it 32 straight trips to the postseason.

For the first time since 2018, Cortland will take the field without longtime star Mat Bruno. However, Nolan Smith appears poised to be the next All-SUNYAC mainstay after a stellar freshman season in which he hit .392 with 11 extra-base hits. Chris Bonacci, who batted .400 in 2023 and .339 last season, remains a key offensive weapon. In addition to his nine doubles and five triples, he also earned defensive recognition after playing error-free in the outfield. Senior Luke Schartner took a step forward last year, raising his batting average to .354 in 96 at-bats. Mitchell Kelly and Zachary Kringdon also return as key contributors. Kelly hit .310 with four home runs, while Kringdon posted a .309 average as the team’s primary catcher. A bounce-back season from Adam Mieczkowski would be a huge boost for the lineup. In 2023, he was named SUNYAC Co-Player of the Year after hitting .360 with 12 home runs, but he struggled last season, managing just a .221 average in 86 at-bats.

On the mound, the Dragons are led by Luis Misla, who was outstanding in his first season after transferring from Hudson Valley CC. He finished with a 2.34 ERA over 77 innings, racking up 114 strikeouts while allowing just 50 hits and holding opponents to a .183 batting average. His dominant performance earned him Conference Pitcher of the Year honors and a summer stint in the prestigious Cape Cod Baseball League, which features the nation’s top collegiate talent. Senior Will McCarthy has been a model of consistency throughout his career, compiling a 2.73 ERA across 142 innings since arriving on campus. Last season, he was particularly sharp, allowing just 25 hits and five walks in 34 ⅔ innings. Dylan Beers has also been a reliable starter over multiple seasons. In 2023, he posted a 2.42 ERA over 63 ⅓ innings with 65 strikeouts, though injuries limited him to just six appearances and three starts last year. The bullpen will be anchored by returning relievers Matthew Nochowitz and Tommy Lynch. Nochowitz had a solid freshman campaign, appearing in 13 games and throwing 34 innings with 28 strikeouts. Lynch, meanwhile, led the team with 16 appearances, totaling 26 ⅔ innings with a 3.71 ERA.

Cortland looks poised for yet another successful season. If their returning stars perform to expectations and the pitching staff stays healthy, the Dragons should have no trouble continuing their tradition of excellence and making another deep postseason run.

14. RANDOLPH-MACON YELLOW JACKETS (33-16)

While the Yellow Jackets are annually entrenched in the national rankings, RMC was absent from the preseason and early-season updates due to a young roster and injury concerns. Their 7-5 record in mid-March seemed to validate those predictions. However, as the season progressed, the team steadily improved, gaining momentum with each game. RMC ultimately captured the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) regular-season title with a 16-6 record and earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament. Their dominant pitching propelled them to a Regional sweep, advancing them to face Adrian with a trip to the DIII College World Series on the line. The Diamond Jackets defeated the Bulldogs, securing their first CWS appearance since their inaugural trip in 2018.

Senior catcher Chaz Harvey didn’t post the highest batting average last season, hitting .267, but he provided significant power, leading the team with 12 home runs and a .513 slugging percentage. Carter Schmitt earned All-ODAC honors after hitting .353 with 11 doubles and will be entering his third full season with the team. Sophomores Zach Wernoski and Jon Quici made a major impact as freshmen. Wernoski led the team with a .371 batting average and an impressive .486 on-base percentage as the team’s third baseman, while Quici hit .274, served as the leadoff hitter, and patrolled center field. Aaron Lautenschlager, a three-year starter for the program, enters his senior season with a career .348 batting average, adding another veteran presence to the lineup.

On the mound, RMC returns two key starting pitchers in Bere Bauers and Carter Schuma. Bauers transitioned from the bullpen into the starting rotation last season, a move that proved successful as he posted a 3.55 ERA with 54 strikeouts in 50 ⅔ innings. Schuma was impressive as a freshman, making nine starts in 11 appearances while compiling a 3.79 ERA in 40 ⅓ innings. Colin Casey also brings starting experience, tallying 40 strikeouts in 39 innings with a 5.08 ERA.

What truly makes RMC a formidable opponent is its deep bullpen. The team was a perfect 30-0 last season when leading after seven innings. Sam Slevin was a key part of that dominance, appearing in 26 games in relief while recording 11 saves and three wins over 34 ⅓ innings. He struck out 38 batters while allowing just 34 hits. Connor McAuley was just as effective, posting a 1.97 ERA over 32 relief innings with 28 strikeouts. William Wain contributed a 3.42 ERA in 18 appearances, and Michael Shanahan struck out 34 batters in 24 ⅔ innings across 17 outings.

With a balanced roster featuring a strong mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent, the Yellow Jackets appear well-equipped to build on last season’s success. If their pitching continues to dominate and their offense remains steady, RMC will be a dangerous team once again in 2025.

15. CLAREMONT-MUDD-SCRIPPS STAGS (32-15)

The Stags are one of three teams from the highly competitive SCIAC featured in the rankings. Last season, they finished two games behind La Verne and one behind Pomona-Pitzer in the conference standings. While CMS managed to eliminate the Leopards in the conference tournament, they ultimately fell short against the Sagehens, settling for runner-up in the SCIAC tournament. However, their strong performance earned them an at-large bid to the NCAA postseason—their first since 1996. In the Regional round, they set a new program record for wins with 32. While the offense will be without several key contributors, CMS returns one of the top hitters in all of DIII, and the pitching staff remains intact with no major losses.

Andrew Mazzone, a former two-sport athlete at Dickinson College, made an immediate impact as a graduate transfer, earning All-American honors. He led the Stags with a .404 batting average, drawing 33 walks and nine hit-by-pitches for a .509 on-base percentage. He also set a school record with 20 home runs and added 12 doubles, finishing with a staggering 1.345 OPS. Blaise Heher thrived in his first full season, hitting .356 with five home runs. Veteran centerfielder Jack Potter, now entering his fourth season as a starter, contributed a .347 average with 10 doubles, six home runs, and 15 stolen bases. The lineup also features promising sophomores Rider Gordon and Dillon Martin, both of whom had standout freshman seasons. Gordon hit .312 while holding down third base, and Martin, the team’s second baseman, batted .307 with 12 doubles, three triples, and four home runs.

On the mound, CMS benefits from a deep and talented pitching staff. Freshmen standouts Parker McGraw and Jackson Hisley delivered strong rookie campaigns. McGraw made 18 appearances, including 11 starts, throwing 76 innings while striking out 51 batters and holding opponents to a .279 batting average. Hisley posted a 4.81 ERA over 48 ⅔ innings, limiting hitters to a .238 average. Despite their success, the duo combined to hit 47 batters, an area they will look to improve. Aaron Herst returns as a key member of the weekend rotation after tossing 55 ⅔ innings last season with 46 strikeouts and a 5.82 ERA.

The bullpen features dominant arms, including Hamilton Finefrock, who was outstanding in relief. Over 19 appearances, he logged 40 ⅔ innings, allowing just 25 hits—only five for extra bases—while striking out 50 batters and issuing just nine walks. Andrew Blackett has also been a reliable reliever over the past two seasons, making 36 appearances and throwing 49 innings with a 5.51 ERA.

16. CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT CAPTAINS (29-12)

The Captains have consistently been one of the top programs under head coach John Harvell, who has led the team to three DIII College World Series appearances. Last season, they seemed poised for a fourth trip before being eliminated in the Super Regional by eventual national champion Misericordia in two tightly contested one-run games. This season, nearly the entire offense returns for another shot at reaching the final eight. However, the pitching staff tells a different story. With multiple pitchers transferring to Division I programs and others graduating, the staff has undergone a complete overhaul. Very few familiar faces return from last season, making the Captains' pitching a significant question mark heading into the year.

Shortstop Josh Reinhold has been a model of consistency, reaching base in all but one of his 83 career games at CNU. He led the team with a .345 batting average, adding 12 doubles and three home runs. Second baseman Doc Daniels earned All-Conference honors after hitting .320 with a team-leading seven home runs, though he missed last year’s postseason due to injury. Senior catcher Lincoln Lubsen, who transferred from Randolph-Macon, was a standout both offensively and defensively, earning All-Conference and All-Region recognition. He hit .323 and threw out 14 potential base stealers. Outfielder Scott Crosson returns for his fifth season after posting a .316 average with 14 extra-base hits. Ayden Stuffel hit .310 as a sophomore outfielder, while Zach Dzarnowski, who spent three seasons at Division I UMBC, contributed a .307 average and a .440 on-base percentage.

While the offense remains intact, the pitching staff is nearly unrecognizable from last season. Only two returning pitchers started a game in 2024, and they accounted for just three of the team’s 41 starts. Additionally, only two pitchers who threw more than 10 innings are back. This is a stark contrast to last year’s team, which posted a stellar 3.33 ERA and racked up 443 strikeouts over 364 ⅔ innings. CNU’s top two pitchers have since moved on to Division I programs, leaving the team in search of new arms to fill the void. One key returner is senior Jackson Baird, who missed last season due to injury. In 2023, he was dominant, finishing with a 2.80 ERA, 65 strikeouts in 54 ⅔ innings, and a .199 opponent batting average. Marcus Dux, who previously pitched at the College of Charleston and Virginia Tech, is one of the two returning pitchers with a start last season. He threw 20 ⅔ innings across 11 appearances, posting a 6.10 ERA. Ryan Morrison, who appeared in seven games, logged only 9 ⅓ innings.

CNU’s success on the mound in 2025 will largely depend on the impact of incoming transfers. Chase Hustedad, who spent two seasons at Division I James Madison, brings experience from a high school state championship-winning team. Connor Barry also has a Division I background, though as a quarterback at Appalachian State. Before that, he threw for 1,757 yards and 19 touchdowns over two seasons at James Madison. He was on CNU’s roster last season but did not pitch. Another key addition is Cooper Newell, whose standout performances at Paul D. Camp Community College helped his team reach the NJCAA DIII World Series in back-to-back years. He posted a 2.42 ERA last season and even threw a no-hitter.

While the Captains’ offense is one of the most experienced in the country, their ability to make another deep postseason run will depend on how quickly their revamped pitching staff can find its footing.

17. LA VERNE LEOPARDS (30-16-1)

The Leopards entered the 2024 season ranked in the Perfect Game preseason Top 25, having come within one win of reaching the DIII College World Series for the first time since their 1995 national championship season. With a powerful returning offense and one of the top pitchers in the nation, they lived up to expectations, capturing the SCIAC regular-season title with an 18-6 record. In the Regionals, La Verne faced Trinity (TX) in a best-of-five series and won three games to one. However, their season came to a halt once again in the Super Regionals, where they fell to Lynchburg.

The Leopards return nearly their entire offensive core, including their top hitters and ten of eleven players who started at least 20 games last season. Leadoff hitter Ryan Vosika was a key catalyst, batting .390 with four doubles, four triples, and 24 walks while striking out just 14 times in 154 at-bats. Matthew Diaz followed closely behind with a .374 average, adding 11 doubles and 14 stolen bases. Logan Reese, a two-sport standout who also earned All-SCIAC honors as the team's goalkeeper in soccer, hit .370 while leading the team with six home runs. Catcher Nathan Perry received conference and regional recognition for his play, hitting .356 with 16 extra-base hits and throwing out eight base stealers. Jason Givens, who transferred from Cerritos, made an immediate impact with a .353 batting average in his first season at La Verne.

Pitching, however, is the biggest concern for the Leopards in 2025. Their top two starters from last season are gone, leaving gaps in the rotation. Matthew DesMarets, who appeared in 16 games with 12 starts, posted a 4.89 ERA over 57 innings, allowing 54 hits while striking out 61. Ethan Galindo, a former starter, was shifted to the bullpen last season, where he recorded a 4.97 ERA across 17 appearances. Galindo and sophomore Mikey Rogozik are likely candidates to transition into starting roles, with Rogozik making six appearances, including one start, as a freshman.

The bullpen remains a strength, anchored by graduate reliever Austin Klopfenstein, who returns for another season. Last year, he led the team with 23 appearances, including two spot starts, striking out 43 batters in 31 ⅓ innings while posting a 4.60 ERA. Gabriel Lucas also provides stability after making 15 appearances and totaling 19 ⅔ innings with a 3.66 ERA.

With an explosive offense returning nearly intact, La Verne should remain a force in the SCIAC. However, their ability to finally break through to the DIII CWS will depend on how well their pitching staff can fill the void left by last season’s departures.

18. PENN STATE HARRISBURG LIONS (35-11)

The Lions dominated United East conference play during the 2024 regular season, finishing with a perfect 15-0 record. However, their momentum stalled in the conference tournament, where they were twice defeated by Keystone. Despite this setback, they secured an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament and earned the opportunity to host the opening round. Unfortunately, their postseason run was cut short, as they struggled in the bracket and exited early with a 1-2 record.

Offensively, the Lions return several key contributors. Shortstop Carlos Irizarry was named United East Volt Division Player of the Year after leading the team with seven home runs while batting .350. First baseman Brendan Henn posted an impressive .364/.480/.568 slash line, resulting in a 1.048 OPS, while also swiping 16 bases. Second baseman Drew Sassaman hit .354, ranking second on the team in batting average, and led the squad with 18 stolen bases. Lucas Floyd, who has a career .335 average at Harrisburg, returns to the lineup after missing the postseason due to injury. Catcher Coy Schwanger emerged as a promising young talent in his freshman season, hitting .423 in 71 at-bats. His plate discipline was exceptional, as he accumulated 30 combined walks and hit-by-pitches, resulting in a .594 OBP. Centerfielder Braeden Piotrowski also returns, adding speed to the lineup after recording nine stolen bases last season.

On the mound, the Lions have a solid foundation with experienced arms leading the rotation. Danny Eden, now entering his fourth season, had a breakout 2024 campaign, finishing with a 2.91 ERA over 58 ⅔ innings. He allowed just 44 hits while striking out 65 batters. Fisher Druck also earned All-United East Volt Division honors, posting a 3.18 ERA across 11 appearances (10 starts) while striking out 38 and allowing 42 hits. Christian Lubic provides additional depth as a third reliable starter, recording 46 strikeouts in 47 ⅓ innings with a 4.18 ERA.

The bullpen remains a strength, highlighted by sophomore Aidan Bergholc, who was stellar in relief last season. In 10 appearances, he threw 23 innings, held opponents to a .185 batting average, and finished with a dominant 1.17 ERA. Junior Caiden Ertter also returns after making 13 appearances and posting a 3.60 ERA.

With a deep and talented lineup and an experienced pitching staff, the Lions have the potential for another strong season. However, to make a deeper postseason run, they will need to overcome the struggles that plagued them in tournament play last year.

19. BABSON BEAVERS (30-13)

The Beavers faced a challenging start to their 2024 season, opening with a 3-6 record. However, they quickly turned things around, finishing second in the NEWMAC regular season standings. Their momentum carried into the NEWMAC tournament, where they went 5-1 to capture their seventh conference title and third since 2017. Babson earned the opportunity to host an NCAA Regional but suffered a disappointing early exit, losing both games. Those two postseason defeats marked only their second and third losses at home all season. Despite the abrupt ending, the Beavers' season was a success, as they reached 30 wins—the third-most in program history and the highest total since their 2019 squad advanced to the DIII College World Series.

The lineup remains strong, anchored by several returning infielders. Third baseman Brant Savage, who started every game last season, had a breakout year, hitting a career-best .333 with eight home runs. He also set a school record with 22 doubles, contributing to a .598 slugging percentage. Across the diamond, first baseman Justin Guest returns after posting a .313 batting average and a .436 OBP, fueled by 30 combined walks and HBPs. The Beavers also retain their middle infield duo. Graduate student Tanner Santos, now in his fifth season, hit .344 last year and led the team with 21 stolen bases. Shortstop Jack Julian provides additional speed after swiping 11 bags and batting .277. In the outfield, Alexander Wilson is expected to return to center field after a solid freshman season in which he hit .283 and stole 10 bases.

On the mound, Babson will need to fill the void left by their top starter’s departure but has two promising young arms ready to step up. Sophomore Jason Finkelstein delivered an impressive freshman campaign, logging 65 ⅔ innings with 61 strikeouts and a 4.80 ERA. Junior James Clark made 11 starts last season, striking out 54 batters in 60 ⅔ innings while posting a 5.64 ERA. Connor Doan also contributed as a sophomore, making five starts and finishing with a 4.34 ERA over 29 innings.

The bullpen features key returners who performed exceptionally well in 2024. Luke McClintock thrived in a dual role, appearing in 19 games and holding opponents to a .229 batting average over 36 innings while recording a team-best 2.50 ERA. Closer Zander Teator was dominant in relief, making 16 appearances and earning six saves along with four wins. He posted a 2.57 ERA in 21 innings, striking out 26 batters while holding opposing hitters to an impressive .137 average.

With an experienced offense and a developing pitching staff, Babson enters 2025 with the pieces in place for another strong season. If their young arms continue to develop, the Beavers could make another deep postseason run.

20. EASTERN CONNECTICUT WARRIORS (29-15)

Expectations were high for the Warriors entering the 2024 season, as they were ranked in the top ten to start the year. While they weren’t necessarily expected to replicate their dominant 2022 championship campaign (49-3), optimism surrounded the program. However, the season didn’t unfold as anticipated. The Warriors stumbled out of the gate with a 1-5 record before rattling off 20 consecutive wins to climb back into the top ten. The remainder of the season was a mix of highs and lows, culminating in a second-place finish in the Little East Conference (LEC) standings and a third-place result in the LEC tournament. Despite earning an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament, the Warriors struggled offensively, scoring just three runs across two losses to see their season come to an early end. However, with much of their offense returning and their top three pitchers back, Eastern Connecticut is poised for another run at national contention.

The lineup is led by senior center fielder Ray Leonzi, who paced the team with a .333 batting average while adding nine doubles, five home runs, and a team-high 14 stolen bases. Veterans Alejandro Soriano and Josh Cofrancesco, now in their fourth seasons with the program, are two of the few remaining members from the 2022 national championship team who played significant innings. Soriano primarily served as the designated hitter last season, batting .328, while Cofrancesco hit .327 with nine doubles and three triples. Hank Penders made an impact in his first full season with the team, hitting .299, and Preston [Irby] Cosme-Cruz emerged as a key contributor after limited action from 2021-2023. He batted .281 and showcased his power with six home runs as a regular starter. Ian Moser is another name to watch, as he hit .352 with five home runs in just 71 at-bats last season and could become a major offensive force in 2025.

On the mound, the Warriors boast one of the strongest trios in Division III baseball. Graduate student Nathan Furino had been a solid contributor for three seasons before breaking out in 2024 as one of the nation’s top pitchers. He appeared in 14 games, including five starts, compiling 53 ⅓ innings while allowing just 37 hits and six walks. He struck out 54 batters and was dominant down the stretch, delivering seven consecutive outings without allowing an earned run, including a no-hitter against Western Connecticut. Matthew Wootton provides another reliable arm, having posted a 3.08 ERA across three seasons while striking out 154 batters in 146 ⅓ innings. Dan Driscoll was arguably the team’s best pitcher last season, leading the staff with a 2.63 ERA and recording 80 strikeouts in 59 ⅓ innings.

Beyond their top three, the pitching staff will see considerable turnover. Connor Willett and AJ Rooks are the most experienced returning relievers, having combined for 21 appearances and 22 innings last season with 2.92 and 3.72 ERAs, respectively.

The Warriors have the pieces in place to contend for another deep postseason run. If they can solidify their bullpen and avoid the inconsistencies that plagued them last year, they could find themselves back in the national spotlight.

21. ROWAN PROFS (29-15)

The Profs entered last season with high expectations and spent much of the early campaign ranked in the top ten. However, a rough stretch beginning in late March saw them lose six of seven games, including two shutout defeats. Despite finishing fifth in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC), they performed well enough overall to secure an at-large bid to the NCAA Regionals. They notched wins over Millikin and Hanover but were eliminated after a lopsided loss to Denison. With six returning position players and an experienced pitching staff, Rowan looks poised to extend its streak of seven consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and challenge for a return to the Division III College World Series.

Leading the offense is second baseman Tyler Cannon, a 2024 All-American who topped the team with a .387 batting average. He added 19 doubles, making him the program’s all-time leader in the category, while also stealing 15 bases and hitting eight home runs. The outfield features two returning All-Region selections in Phil Sedalis and Jason Morgan. Sedalis, the school’s all-time triples leader, added six more last season along with 14 doubles, nine home runs, and a .340 average. Morgan was the Profs’ second-leading hitter, batting .384 with 15 doubles, four triples, and four home runs. Senior catcher Karson Harcourt provides veteran leadership behind the plate with a .299 career average over three seasons. Chris Serrano (.312 in 29 games) and freshman Joey Bogart (.318 after transferring from Division I Rhode Island) add depth to the lineup. Additionally, graduate transfer Eric Sabato could be a key difference-maker. The outfielder was a two-year starter at Division I Monmouth, where he hit .301.

The pitching staff is anchored by Mike Shannon, the reigning NJAC Pitcher of the Year. Now in his sixth season with the team, Shannon led Rowan with 69 strikeouts and posted a 3.19 ERA. Zach Coluccio also returns after throwing 59 innings with a 5.03 ERA in his first full season since transferring from Widener in 2022. Thomas Sullivan, who missed both the 2022 and 2023 seasons recovering from Tommy John surgery, made nine starts last year, logging 42 ⅔ innings with 30 strikeouts while allowing 45 hits. In the bullpen, Sean Colbert was reliable as the team’s closer, appearing in a team-high 20 games and striking out 26 batters in 24 ⅓ innings. Nick Cugino showed promise as a freshman, recording a 3.86 ERA in 13 appearances. The Profs have also bolstered their pitching depth with two transfers—Lucas Hampel, who posted a 3.41 ERA at Rowan College South Jersey, and Steven Maiers, who excelled at Division II Barton with a 2.53 ERA in 14 relief appearances.

If Rowan can avoid midseason struggles and maintain consistency, they could emerge as a serious contender in 2025.

22. COE KOHAWKS (31-16)

Coe captured the American Rivers Conference (ARC) regular-season title by two games over Buena Vista and then defeated the Beavers twice in the tournament to claim both championships for the first time under head coach Steve Cook. The Kohawks rolled through the early rounds of the NCAA Tournament with two quick wins over Benedictine and Wisconsin-La Crosse, but their season ended just one win short of a Super Regional appearance as they couldn't keep pace offensively with the Eagles. This year, Coe is poised for one of the best seasons in program history, returning seven of nine position players who started at least 25 games, along with three top starting pitchers and two experienced relievers.

Leading the offense is centerfielder Jake Brosius, the reigning ARC Position Player of the Year, who put together one of the most impressive offensive seasons in program history. Brosius started every game, hitting .399 with 15 doubles, five triples, and 10 home runs while swiping 25 bases. Tyce Johnson has been a key contributor for four years, both at the plate and on the mound. Last season, he hit .375 in 96 at-bats and has a 4.45 career ERA over 182 innings. Catcher Ryan Thoreson excelled in his first full season, batting .352 while throwing out 15 would-be base stealers and committing just two errors. Leadoff hitter Mitchell Eckardt returns to second base after hitting .351 in his third season as a starter. At shortstop, Joe Willie had a fantastic freshman year, posting a .321 average with 15 doubles while committing just nine errors in 215 chances.

On the mound, the Kohawks boast three experienced starting pitchers in Caden Richards, Ethan O’Donnell, and Jack Walsh. Richards, a First Team All-ARC selection, made 15 appearances with eight starts, throwing 52 ⅓ innings with 40 strikeouts and just eight walks while compiling a 3.96 ERA. O’Donnell has been a steady presence in the rotation for two seasons. While not a strikeout-heavy pitcher (43 in a team-high 70 ⅓ innings last year), he limits walks and uses his 6’5” frame effectively—he previously played on the Coe basketball team. Walsh showed promise as a freshman, striking out 48 batters in 40 innings across 12 appearances (six starts). The bullpen is anchored by Michael Bonner and CJ Johnson. Bonner made 19 appearances, logging 29 ⅓ innings with a 4.60 ERA, while Johnson struck out 28 batters in 22 ⅔ innings with a 3.97 ERA.

With a deep, experienced lineup and a well-rounded pitching staff, Coe has all the pieces to make a serious run at a Super Regional and possibly beyond in 2025. If their key players stay healthy and continue to perform at a high level, this could be a historic season for the Kohawks.

23. MISERICORDIA COUGARS (44-11)

Despite entering the season with a top-ten ranking, the Cougars struggled early and did not initially resemble a national contender. Misericordia started 7-7, plagued by inconsistent performances on both offense and the mound. However, the senior-heavy team found its rhythm, losing only four more games the rest of the season to finish 44-11. Their impressive run included a dominant 19-2 MAC Freedom record, a sweep through both the MAC Freedom Championship and NCAA Regional and Super Regional, and ultimately their second consecutive and third overall trip to the NCAA DIII World Series.

After an early loss to Lynchburg, the Cougars rebounded with three straight wins to reach the best-of-three national championship series against Wisconsin-Whitewater. After splitting the first two games, Misericordia captured its first-ever national title with a decisive 10-5 victory in the finale.

The championship run was fueled by a veteran core that has since moved on, leaving the Cougars with significant roster gaps to fill. Many of their top offensive contributors, along with their top two starting pitchers and All-American closer, have departed. While last year’s success will aid in reloading, the sheer number of key losses makes a repeat championship highly unlikely. Misericordia will field another talented squad in 2025, but a third straight trip to the final eight appears to be a long shot.

Offensively, catcher Brock Bollinger will be a key returner after hitting .356 with 10 doubles, three triples, and four home runs while swiping 22 bases. Veteran contributors Gabe Bunn and Jack Regenye also return for their fourth seasons. Bunn hit .300 last year with five extra-base hits and nine stolen bases, while Regenye, the team’s centerfielder, batted .289 and led the squad with 28 stolen bases and 19 sacrifice hits. The infield will see the return of Brooks Kanwisher (.280) and shortstop Owen Cordner, who hit .241 as a freshman.

On the mound, Misericordia faces a major overhaul, with last season’s top three pitchers no longer in the rotation. Steve Rinda and Max Oliver are the most experienced returning arms. Rinda started 12 games, logging 66 ⅓ innings with 47 strikeouts and a 5.70 ERA. Oliver made five starts, posting a 4.36 ERA with a complete game and 23 strikeouts in 33 innings. Brian Henry, who made six appearances (three starts) last season, adds another option after recording a 4.50 ERA over 25 innings. The pitching staff features eight incoming freshmen, and first-year Wiley Fleck has intriguing two-way potential as both an outfielder and a pitcher.

Misericordia remains a strong program, but with so many new faces, the 2025 season will likely be a transitional year rather than another championship push.

24. CENTRE COLONELS (36-13)

For the first time in program history, the Colonels have earned a spot in the Perfect Game Top 25. Centre dominated the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) last season, capturing both the regular-season and conference tournament titles to secure their first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance. Their impressive run continued in the NCAA Regional, where they earned victories over Crown and California Lutheran before being eliminated by DIII powerhouse Wisconsin-Whitewater. Centre finished the year with a 36-13 record, setting new school marks for both wins and winning percentage. With a deep and talented roster returning, the Colonels have a strong chance to rewrite their record book once again in 2025.

Much of Centre’s success this season hinges on the all-around play of Ben Prather. The SAA Athlete of the Year and All-American excelled both at the plate and on the mound. He hit .362 with 11 doubles, four triples, and four home runs while swiping 17 bases. On the mound, he was equally dominant, leading the team with a 3.58 ERA over 78 innings. He threw five complete games in 13 starts, limiting opponents to a .228 batting average. While Prather is a game-changer, he won’t have to carry the team alone—Centre returns plenty of other key contributors.

Catcher Evan Weyler provides both offensive firepower and defensive reliability. He batted .299 last season while leading the team with 19 doubles and six triples. Behind the plate, he showcased his defensive prowess by throwing out 21 would-be base stealers. Outfielder Ayden Lohr returns after an impressive freshman season in which he hit .344 and stole nine bases. First baseman Michael Lynch adds power to the lineup, having led the team with seven home runs while batting .322. Aaron Lopez also returns at second base after hitting .274 in his first full season.

On the mound, Centre boasts a formidable rotation behind Prather. Harrison Cowdrey made an immediate impact as a freshman, posting a 3.63 ERA with 67 strikeouts in 62 innings across 12 starts. Zach Heavern was a reliable bullpen arm, appearing in 19 games and allowing just 38 hits in 48 ⅔ innings while striking out 47. Opponents hit just .219 against him. TJ Schira also performed well as a freshman reliever, logging a 3.50 ERA over 11 appearances.

25. EMORY EAGLES (23-15-1)

The Eagles were once a dominant force in Division III baseball, making three consecutive College World Series appearances from 2014 to 2016. While they have remained a strong program in recent years, they have yet to recapture the same level of success from a decade ago. That could change this season, as Emory returns nearly its entire lineup from last year, along with all three primary starting pitchers.

Senior catcher Blake Dinçman headlines the returning offense after earning conference and regional honors. He led the team with a .412 batting average, racking up 14 doubles and four home runs. Jack Halloran, a four-year starter, provides a reliable presence at the plate with his .392 average and an impressive .544 OBP, leading the team in walks and HBPs. Matthew Sicoli was a key contributor in all 39 games last season, hitting .384 with 15 doubles, a team-high seven home runs, and 13 stolen bases. The Eagles also benefited from strong freshman performances last year—third baseman Aidan Conley hit .343 with eight doubles and three triples, while center fielder Jake Lawson batted .326 with 18 stolen bases in 36 starts. Shortstop and leadoff hitter Zach Wasserlauf will look to bounce back after his average dipped to .258 last season; he previously hit .330 as a freshman.

On the mound, the Eagles have a promising trio of returning starters. JT Rattigan had an outstanding debut season, earning UAA Rookie and Pitcher of the Year honors with a 3.79 ERA over 40 ⅓ innings, allowing just 38 hits while striking out 27. Josh Zuckerman was dominant at times, striking out 77 batters in 54 innings while limiting opponents to a .233 batting average, though his ERA sat at 5.67. Ryan Reynolds provided steady innings, making 11 starts and 12 total appearances while striking out 46 batters over 53 ⅔ innings with a 5.03 ERA. Senior closer Bennett Speicher was a reliable bullpen arm, appearing in 19 games and logging 32 ⅔ innings with 31 strikeouts.

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College | Story | 2/6/2026

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High School | General | 2/6/2026

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David Rawnsley

The 2026 class is one of the best in recent memory for the state of California, with 18 players ranking among the top 100 in the Perfect Game national rankings. Three PG All-Americans, IF Trey Ebel, OF Isaiah Hearn and RHP Logan Georges were all edged out of places on the California All-Region Team as a result. And although the 2027 class doesn’t look as deep, it does feature three Top Six players in SS Dylan Seward, LHP Jared Grindlinger and SS Carter Hadnot. Not surprisingly, California high schools are very well represented in the Perfect Game Pre-Season Top 50 rankings, particularly with 2025 Trinity League champion St. John Bosco beginning the season as the top ranked team in the country. A very deep Orange Lutheran squad holds down the third spot in the rankings, with 12th ranked De La Salle being the top team from Northern California. Corona (17th),...

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High School | Rankings | 2/4/2026

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College | Story | 2/4/2026

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