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College | Rankings | 2/11/2026

DII Top 25: February 11

Nick Herfordt

Preseason rankings are less about certainty and more about expectation. Experience, continuity, and proven production tend to win in Division II baseball, but every spring reminds us how thin the margins can be. The teams below enter 2026 carrying varying combinations of momentum, pressure, and opportunity. Some are defending a standard. Others are chasing it.

At this level, projection is rarely about raw talent alone. It is shaped by familiarity, by the players who have been through a season together, by staffs that know how to manage the quiet stretches as well as the loud ones. Injuries, turnover, and postseason moments leave marks that don’t always show up in the numbers, but they shape how teams respond when games tighten.

The programs at the top of these rankings carry more than returning statistics. They carry memory and momentum. They remember what it felt like to finish a season the right way, or to fall just short. For some, success has created expectation, and with it a different kind of pressure. Winning once is difficult. Sustaining it demands discipline, trust, and the ability to move forward without losing edge.

Others arrive with something different. Near-misses sharpen urgency. Seasons that ended a step early linger longer than blowouts ever do. For those teams, progress depends on replacing departed voices without losing identity, on trusting new arms in old moments, and on believing that the next opportunity will feel different because the preparation has been deeper.

These rankings are not a verdict. They are a snapshot taken before the noise begins, shaped by what teams bring back and what they have already learned. By the time spring turns into summer, certainty will matter less than composure. The rest will be decided on the field.

Rank	School	State	2025 Record	2025 Final Rk.
1	Texas Tyler Patriots	TX	49-13	4
2	Tampa Spartans	FL	55-10	1
3	Catawba Indians	NC	46-14	7
4	Belmont Abbey Crusaders	NC	41-17	19
5	Minnesota State Mavericks	MN	51-8	11
6	East Stroudsburg Warriors	PA	41-16	5
7	North Greenville Trailblazers	SC	45-15	12
8	Point Loma Sea Lions	CA	39-18	17
9	Seton Hill Griffins	PA	40-16	23
10	Grand Valley State Lakers	MI	43-14	24
11	Colorado Mesa Mavericks	CO	42-14	14
12	Central Missouri Mules	MO	48-14	2
13	Pittsburg State Gorillas	KS	42-12	8
14	Young Harris Mountain Lions	GA	40-17	22
15	Lenoir-Rhyne Bears	NC	50-15	3
16	Angelo State Rams	TX	48-10	6
17	Florida Southern Moccasins	FL	38-15-1	15
18	Westmont Warriors	CA	43-14	13
19	Francis Marion Patriots	SC	40-13	NR
20	Augustana Vikings	SD	39-16	NR
21	Wingate Bulldogs	NC	26-26	NR
22	Davenport Panters	MI	42-15	25
23	Cal State Monterey Bay Otters	CA	39-19	16
24	Harding Bisons	AR	41--19	NR
25	West Alabama Tigers	AL	32-25	NR

1. Texas Tyler Patriots (4, 49-13)

Few programs enter the 2026 season carrying both momentum and unfinished business like UT Tyler. The Patriots are coming off a landmark year that vaulted the program firmly into Division II’s national conversation, finishing 49–13 overall and 40–8 in Lone Star Conference play while setting a school record for wins. That surge carried all the way through the NCAA postseason, where UT Tyler went unbeaten in both the Regional and Super Regional rounds to secure the program’s first-ever trip to the NCAA Division II Baseball Championship in Cary, North Carolina. The respect followed quickly. UT Tyler opens the year as the LSC preseason favorite with 20 first-place votes, and the Patriots boast both the conference’s Preseason Player of the Year (Drew Schmidt) and Preseason Pitcher of the Year (Caden Copeland). With a veteran-heavy roster intact, last season’s breakthrough looks less like an outlier and more like a foundation.

The offense revolves around one of the most efficient middle-infield pairings in the country. Schmidt started all 62 games a season ago and authored a dominant campaign, hitting .410 with 22 doubles, five triples, eight home runs, and 13 stolen bases while earning All-American and All–Lone Star Conference First Team honors. Alongside him, second baseman Tanner Hornback matched that .410 average, adding 18 doubles, four triples, and 16 stolen bases. The two combined to strike out just 29 times in 449 at-bats, giving UT Tyler a relentless, low-variance presence at the top of the order. The outfield offers proven stability, led by Connor Clark, who owns a .318 career average across 79 games, and Kaston Mason, now a fourth-year starter who continues to provide a blend of contact and power. At first base, Bryce Jewell is expected to assume an everyday role after hitting .370 in his first full season, while Brock Bearden returns after batting .323 in 93 at-bats. Behind the plate, Division I transfer Cole Ketzner (South Alabama) brings experience to handle the bulk of the catching duties, with Travis Bragg, Luke Smith, Drew Bourgeois, and John Maldonado Jr. adding depth and positional flexibility throughout the lineup.

Run prevention remains the other pillar of UT Tyler’s roster construction. Copeland is set to lead the staff after earning 2026 LSC Preseason Pitcher of the Year honors, bringing with him Division I experience from Sam Houston State and Louisiana Tech, where he appeared in 38 games with five starts. Ethan Jezierski, a highly regarded arm from Angelina College, enters the mix as a strong candidate for the rotation, while fifth-year Patriot Dylan Blomquist provides durability and institutional knowledge after logging 210 career innings and earning All–Lone Star Conference honors earlier in his career. Transfers Coleson Abel (Texas Tech, Lamar) and Garrett Landry (Stephen F. Austin), who started eight games last season, add versatility as either starters or bullpen options, and Matthew Mackenzie arrives from Colby CC to deepen the staff further. The bullpen returns key contributors in Jacob Hadden, who threw 26 innings with a 4.50 ERA, and Noah Lindt, who struck out 21 batters in just 15⅓ innings while holding opponents to a .189 average. With balance across the roster and experience in nearly every role, UT Tyler enters 2026 built not only to contend from opening day, but to carry the weight of expectation that now comes with it.

2. Tampa Spartans (1, 55-10)

Tampa enters the 2026 season as the program against which the rest of Division II continues to be measured. The Spartans are coming off a 55–10 campaign that left little ambiguity, rolling through Sunshine State Conference play before closing the year with an 11–5 national championship win over Central Missouri in Cary, North Carolina. Tampa’s dominance extended beyond postseason success, as the Spartans held the No. 1 position in the Perfect Game Division II rankings from the preseason poll through the final release, a wire-to-wire run that underscored consistency rather than timing. The championship marked back-to-back national titles and the 10th in program history, further reinforcing the standard established under head coach Joe Urso. Entering 2026, Tampa does not face questions of legitimacy, only the challenge of sustaining a level few programs ever reach.

Offensively, the Spartans once again present a lineup constructed to apply pressure across all nine spots. Brayden Woodburn returns as one of the division’s most complete players after hitting .374 with 80 hits, 16 doubles, eight home runs, 57 RBI, and a .494 on-base percentage while providing steady defense at second base. Veteran infielder Jhoander Irigoyen adds experience and elite glove work, batting .313 with 52 hits, 15 doubles, and 37 RBI. In center field, Maddox King remains the defensive backbone of the outfield, recording 120 putouts without committing an error while adding 12 doubles at the plate. The lineup gains significant production through Jordan Evans, who hit .347 with 13 home runs at Mississippi College, drew 30 walks, was hit by pitch 25 times, stole 26 bases, and earned All–Gulf South Conference honors. Jesse Ponce arrives after hitting .361 at Northern Oklahoma College–Enid, while Walker Vanecek (.328 over two seasons at State College of Florida), Jake Books (.278 over three seasons as a starter at Coastal Carolina), and Jack Martinez (.327 with five home runs, 20 stolen bases, and his school’s Male Athlete of the Year honor) deepen the order. Behind the plate, former Rice catcher Gunnett Carlson brings Division I pedigree, joined by Javi Soto (.290 with 10 home runs at Santa Fe College) and freshman Dennis McCaffery, giving Tampa multiple options to manage workload and matchups.

Pitching depth remains the defining feature of Tampa’s roster construction. Left-hander Robert Satin is positioned for a larger role after striking out 45 batters in 37.1 innings, while transfer J.L. Glanton brings proven durability after spending three seasons at Georgia College, where he posted a 4.17 ERA, threw 235⅓ innings, and recorded 10 complete games. Alex Laiche enters the rotation competition after dominating at Delgado CC with a 2.13 ERA and 52 strikeouts in 38 innings, and graduate student Slaide Naturman adds experience after spending two seasons at Miami following a freshman year at Kennesaw State. Oscar Hernandez, a 13-game starter at State College of Florida, and Lucas Johns, who appeared in 14 games as a starter at Santa Fe College, provide flexibility as starters or relievers. Former Clemson arm B.J. Bailey adds depth after appearing in 21 games with six starts, while Josiah Velazquez returns as a late-inning option after closing at Florida SouthWestern with a 3.56 ERA and 45 strikeouts in 43 innings. With depth across roles and competition throughout the staff, Tampa enters 2026 built to absorb attrition, but carrying the expectation that anything short of another championship run will feel unfinished.

3. Catawba Indians (7, 46-14)

Catawba enters the 2026 season with the profile of a program that has already proven it belongs on the national stage and now faces the challenge of pushing further. The Indians are coming off a 46–14 campaign in 2025 that included a 25–5 record in South Atlantic Conference play, a SAC regular-season championship, and a sustained presence in the Perfect Game Top 10. Catawba spent nearly the entire season ranked among Division II’s elite and advanced deep into the postseason before falling one win short of a return trip to Cary. That narrow margin now defines the offseason narrative. With expectations recalibrated and a conference crown to defend, the Indians open 2026 measured less by trajectory and more by finish.

Offensively, Catawba must replace its three most productive hitters from last season, but the structure of the lineup remains intact. Sam Hunter returns to the top of the order bringing both experience and speed, having hit .339 over the past two seasons while stealing 63 bases during that span. His ability to pressure defenses on the bases continues to shape the tone of the offense. Shortstop Nathan Crismon, a transfer from East Carolina, adds a premium defensive presence up the middle along with on-base reliability after batting .304 with a .417 on-base percentage. Hunter Atkins returns after a productive season at UNC Greensboro, where he hit .318 and provides a steady middle-of-the-order option. Matthew Connolly, who finished second on the team with seven home runs while batting .266, offers right-handed power and lineup stability. Second baseman Ty Hubbard rounds out the returning core after posting a .372 OBP and stealing 16 bases, giving the Indians another multi-dimensional threat.

The lineup also gains impact through additions designed to offset lost production rather than overhaul approach. Brandon Crabtree arrives from Gaston College after hitting .397 with 25 extra-base hits, bringing immediate run-producing potential. Malachi Cloud adds speed and defensive flexibility after batting .254 with 25 stolen bases as a starter at Lee. Together, those additions give Catawba options to adjust lineups situationally without sacrificing offensive identity. While the group lacks some of last season’s raw output on paper, it retains enough balance and athleticism to remain competitive across conference and regional play.

Pitching remains the stabilizing force behind Catawba’s national ceiling. Casey Gouge returns after ranking third in the SAC with 16 starts and seventh with 69 strikeouts, posting a 3.81 ERA across 82⅔ innings. His durability and familiarity with conference opponents anchor the rotation. Joining him is Kemper Nix, a transfer from Limestone who ranked third in the league with a 3.15 ERA while averaging 8.7 strikeouts per nine innings, giving the staff a second frontline option with swing-and-miss ability. Fellow Limestone transfer Colt Wilkins adds further reliability after making 14 starts, throwing 80 innings, and finishing with a 3.26 ERA. Highly regarded local arm Parker Lakey enters the mix as a candidate to round out the rotation, providing developmental upside alongside proven innings.

The bullpen returns experienced late-inning options in Seth Sharpe and Braeden Rodgers, who combined for 50 appearances and 81 innings last season. Sharpe held opponents to a .204 batting average, while Rodgers struck out 33 batters in 39 innings, giving Catawba multiple paths to shorten games once leads are established. With depth across both the rotation and bullpen, the staff is built to withstand the grind of conference play and the variability of postseason matchups.

Catawba enters 2026 with fewer unknowns than most programs at this level, but also with less margin than its record might suggest. The path back toward Cary will hinge on whether the offense can replace departed production without increasing variance and whether the pitching staff can maintain its consistency against top-tier competition. The foundation is firmly in place. The next step is converting proximity into presence.

4. Belmont Abbey Crusaders (19, 41-17)

Belmont Abbey enters the 2026 season carrying momentum that reflects both recent achievement and growing expectation. The Crusaders are coming off one of the strongest campaigns in program history after finishing 41–17 overall in 2025, capturing the Conference Carolinas Tournament championship, and hosting an NCAA regional for the first time. The win total matched a program best for the second time in three seasons, while the tournament title marked Belmont Abbey’s first since 2009. Although the Crusaders’ postseason run concluded after a single win in regional play, the broader arc points toward a program that has moved beyond breakthrough and into sustained relevance. With a veteran-heavy roster returning, Belmont Abbey opens the new season viewed as a conference favorite and a legitimate postseason fixture.

The offense returns a core that gives Belmont Abbey both stability and upside. Center fielder Caleb Burr headlines the lineup after a breakout campaign in which he hit .353 with 19 doubles, 16 home runs, and 21 stolen bases, establishing himself as one of the most dynamic players in Division II. Freshman standout Mat Fattore emerged immediately as one of the most difficult outs in the country, batting .352 with a .525 on-base percentage while leading all of Division II with 37 hit-by-pitches, a testament to both plate discipline and approach. Outfielder Joe Whitaker, now entering his third season, adds further balance after hitting .305 with 10 home runs and 11 stolen bases. The infield remains intact with Todd Velotta, who hit .330 with 15 doubles and seven home runs, and shortstop Jack Boyles, who batted .308 and stole 21 bases, both returning for their third seasons as starters.

Veteran presence continues to define the middle of the order through Connor Tucker, who has now started 211 career games for the Crusaders. Tucker brings consistency and durability, batting .315 last season with 16 doubles, five triples, and 24 stolen bases, while providing positional flexibility. The lineup gains additional depth with the addition of Connor Paul, a proven bat from Volunteer State Community College, giving Belmont Abbey more options to manage matchups and maintain offensive pressure over the course of a series. Collectively, the group returns the majority of its production and retains a profile built around balance rather than reliance on a single run-producing threat.

Pitching will play a central role in determining how far Belmont Abbey can extend its recent success. Ace Spencer Cipro returns at the front of the rotation after posting a 3.44 ERA over 91⅔ innings while throwing five complete games, giving the Crusaders a proven workhorse capable of anchoring weekends. Drew Stegura joins him after tossing 89 innings and striking out 81 batters, providing stability and experience at the top of the staff. The rotation gains depth with transfers Caleb Crain and Hunter Sherrill from Caldwell Community College. Crain allowed just 21 hits in 33⅓ innings across 10 appearances, while Sherrill struck out 75 batters in 65 innings with a 3.18 ERA, giving Belmont Abbey multiple options to manage innings and workload.

The bullpen receives reinforcement through Division I transfer Sawyer Osborne from Georgia Southern and Jacob Larkins, who is slated to close games after appearing in 16 contests last season and holding opponents to a .222 batting average. With experience distributed across the rotation and bullpen, the staff offers both reliability and flexibility, attributes that become increasingly critical in postseason environments.

Belmont Abbey enters 2026 with a roster built to withstand expectation rather than chase it. The Crusaders have already cleared benchmarks that once defined program success. The challenge now lies in translating depth, continuity, and veteran presence into a deeper postseason run, where the difference between hosting and advancing often comes down to execution rather than opportunity.

5. Minnesota State Mavericks (51–8)

Minnesota State enters the 2026 season with one of the most complete profiles in Division II baseball, built on sustained excellence rather than a single breakthrough year. The Mavericks spent the entirety of the 2025 season ranked in the Perfect Game Top 25, finished with a remarkable 51–8 overall record, and dominated the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference with a 36–4 league mark, including a 12–1 record at Bowyer Field. Minnesota State captured both the NSIC regular-season and tournament championships before its postseason run came to an end in the NCAA Central Regional. With a veteran core returning and a roster that blends power, depth, and experience, the 2026 outlook reflects continuity at a national-contender level.

The offense is anchored by one of the most dangerous middle-of-the-order bats in Division II in Louis Magers. Magers hit .319 last season with 14 doubles and 20 home runs, drew 29 walks, was hit by pitch 14 times, and posted a .430 on-base percentage while serving as a consistent run producer. His value extends beyond the batter’s box, as he also contributes on the mound, giving Minnesota State a rare two-way presence. Surrounding Magers is a lineup that returns multiple proven contributors. Jake Berkland impressed as a freshman, batting .316 with 11 doubles and 12 stolen bases, while Logan Miller added table-setting ability after hitting .328 with a .440 OBP. Brandon Vicko brings additional experience and depth, rounding out a core that limits reliance on any single offensive approach.

Minnesota State also adds impact through targeted roster reinforcement. Ethan Bowers arrives after earning First Team All-GLVC and Second Team All-Midwest Region honors at Illinois–Springfield, where he hit .325 with 10 home runs, providing immediate production and lineup flexibility. The Mavericks further bolster the outfield with Cole Yearsley, who appeared in 48 games at Winthrop, and Pambos Nicoloudes, who logged 47 games over two seasons at Illinois–Chicago. Those additions extend lineup depth and create internal competition, an important factor in maintaining offensive consistency across a long season.

Pitching depth continues to define Minnesota State’s ability to absorb variance. Sam George returns after going 8–0 with a 2.97 ERA, striking out 60 batters in 60⅔ innings across 13 appearances, including 12 starts. His consistency at the front of the rotation provides stability from week to week. Magers was equally effective in his dual role, posting a 2.72 ERA over 43 innings, holding opponents to a .187 batting average while striking out 35. Mack Crowley also returns after logging 38⅓ innings with a 3.76 ERA in 11 appearances, including seven starts, offering another experienced option capable of moving between roles.

The staff gains Division I experience through the additions of Ben Berkhof from North Dakota State and Daniel Zang, who made seven starts at Wichita State, striking out 31 batters in 27⅓ innings while limiting hitters to a .158 average. Junior college standout Jacob Crissinger adds further depth after striking out 37 batters with just nine walks in 29⅓ innings at North Iowa Area CC, reinforcing the bullpen and rotation mix. Collectively, the staff offers multiple paths to manage innings, matchups, and workload without overextending individual arms.

Minnesota State enters 2026 with a roster built to handle both expectation and attrition. The offense provides sustained pressure rather than sporadic bursts, and the pitching staff offers enough depth to navigate the grind of conference and postseason play. The Mavericks’ challenge is no longer proving national relevance, but converting regular-season dominance into a deeper postseason finish, where the margins narrow and execution becomes the differentiator.

6. East Stroudsburg Warriors (5, 41–16)

East Stroudsburg enters the 2026 season having crossed a meaningful threshold from regional contender to national presence. The Warriors delivered a statement campaign in 2025, finishing 41–16 overall, capturing the Atlantic Region Championship, and advancing to the NCAA Division II Championship in Cary, North Carolina. Their season ended with a 12–8 loss to Central Missouri, but the postseason run recalibrated expectations across the program. That momentum carried directly into the offseason, as East Stroudsburg was named the PSAC preseason favorite for the first time in program history. Entering 2026, the Warriors are no longer measured by progress alone, but by their ability to sustain success at an elevated level.

Offensively, ESU returns a group built around discipline, athleticism, and situational execution rather than sheer power. Outfielder Shanley Wall anchors the lineup after pacing the conference with 43 walks and seven sacrifice flies, finishing 10th with 21 stolen bases, and posting a career .358 batting average with a .456 on-base percentage. His plate discipline stands out, reflected in a 43-to-13 walk-to-strikeout ratio that consistently pressures opposing pitching staffs. First baseman Parker Fry provides steady run production after batting .345 with 16 doubles, while senior second baseman Walker Zampella adds reliability on both sides of the ball with a .270 average and strong infield defense.

Behind the plate, Connor Reilly returns for his fourth season after hitting .243, stealing 16 bases, and throwing out 11 of 21 attempted base stealers, giving the Warriors both athleticism and experience at a premium defensive position. Shortstop Albert Easton impressed in limited action, batting .317 across 82 at-bats, while outfielder Chaise Albus, a career .333 hitter, provides another consistent offensive presence. The lineup gains an immediate boost with the addition of Cole Serfass, a two-time All-PSAC selection at Mansfield who hit .347 in 39 games last season, along with Zander Condeelis, who spent the previous year on the roster at Division I Canisius. Together, the group offers depth and versatility without fundamentally altering the offense’s identity.

Pitching continuity remains the clearest indicator of East Stroudsburg’s ceiling. All three primary starters return from a staff that anchored the Warriors’ postseason run. Ethan Woods earned All-PSAC East First Team honors after posting a 2.19 ERA with 34 strikeouts in 49⅓ innings, providing a reliable front-end option. Peyton Brannock logged 57 innings, striking out 50 batters with a 4.28 ERA, while Dewees adds durability after appearing in 19 games with 19 starts and compiling 153 career innings with 105 strikeouts against just 36 walks. The bullpen returns as a strength, led by Johansel Brito, who appeared in 29 games, threw 39⅔ innings, and was scoreless in 17 outings, along with Jake Albert, who held opponents to a .210 batting average, and Cole Dymek, who struck out 40 batters in 38 innings.

Graduate transfer Cade Davis adds Division I experience after appearing in 24 games at George Washington, while Evan Hughes arrives after starting 11 games at York College and striking out 66 batters in 65⅓ innings. With depth across both starting and relief roles, East Stroudsburg enters 2026 equipped to handle postseason expectations. The challenge now is maintaining consistency as the target shifts from opportunity to accountability.

7. North Greenville Trailblazers (12, 45–15)

North Greenville enters the 2026 season defined by sustained competitiveness and an increasingly narrow margin between proximity and breakthrough. The Trailblazers finished 45–15 overall in 2025, went 21–9 in Conference Carolinas play, and extended their postseason run with NCAA Southeast Regional victories over Young Harris and Lander before falling to Catawba. Once again, NGU found itself within reach of Cary, reinforcing a familiar narrative for a program that has consistently remained on the national periphery without yet crossing fully into championship territory. With a deep and experienced roster returning, expectations now align with that next step.

Offensively, North Greenville blends returning production with high-impact reinforcements capable of reshaping the lineup’s ceiling. Lane McGaha returns after appearing in just 18 games last season due to injury, yet still hit .319 in 47 at-bats after arriving as a highly regarded two-way prospect. Outfielders Thomas Powell (.294 with eight home runs) and Josh Foulks (.311 with eight home runs) provide stability and power, while catcher Jack Sears enters his fourth season with the program, offering continuity behind the plate. The lineup gains experience and athleticism with the addition of Mason Swinney, a Division I transfer with time at Alabama and Dallas Baptist who brings 67 games of DI experience and projects as the team’s leadoff hitter.

Further depth comes from Max Gustafson, who hit .322 as a shortstop at Wake Tech CC, and CJ Dean, who hit .313 with 15 home runs and 15 doubles after beginning his career at Cincinnati. Jan Pospisil, a native of the Czech Republic, adds contact ability after batting .368 at Pitt CC, giving NGU another option to lengthen the order. Collectively, the offense retains its identity while increasing internal competition, an important factor as the Trailblazers navigate conference play and postseason series.

Pitching will ultimately determine whether North Greenville can convert consistency into advancement. Matty Brown emerged as one of the conference’s top arms as a true freshman, earning Conference Carolinas Freshman of the Year honors after leading the league with a 2.23 ERA in conference play, striking out 60 batters in 64⅔ innings, and holding opponents to a .220 batting average. Brady Price also impressed in his debut season, posting a 3.53 ERA across 43⅓ innings with eight starts in 12 appearances. Oliver Adams is expected to take on a larger role after limited action as a freshman, while Bennett Roemer rounds out the rotation after striking out 35 batters in 34 innings and bringing prior success from his freshman year at Newberry.

The bullpen remains a strength with Kadan Roach returning after 16 appearances and 23 strikeouts in 19 innings, joined by graduate transfer Thomas Skipper, who posted a 2.63 ERA over 27⅓ innings while holding hitters to a .224 average. The addition of Thayer Tavormina from USC Upstate adds another high-upside arm. North Greenville enters 2026 with the roster depth to compete nationally; the remaining question is whether the pitching staff can sustain its effectiveness deep enough into the postseason to finally push the Trailblazers beyond the threshold they have hovered near for several seasons.

8. Point Loma Sea Lions (17, 39–18)

Point Loma enters the 2026 season with a résumé defined by consistency and a growing sense of urgency. The Sea Lions have established themselves as one of Division II’s most reliable postseason programs, finishing 39–18 overall and 32–12 in PacWest play in 2025 while earning an NCAA West Regional berth for the fourth consecutive season. Their regional run once again showcased both power and resilience, highlighted by a 20–6 elimination win in which Point Loma set a season high with seven home runs, followed by a shutout victory over Montana State Billings. The season ultimately ended with a narrow 3–2 loss to top-seed Northwest Nazarene, leaving the Sea Lions one win shy of a return to the Super Regionals for the third time in four seasons. That proximity now frames expectations entering 2026.

Offensively, Point Loma must replace its three top statistical producers, but the remainder of the regular lineup returns intact. Shortstop Matt Bernath anchors the infield after earning All-PacWest honors as a freshman, starting all 57 games and slashing .328/.450/.444 while providing elite defense. The infield remains steady with Josiah Rodriguez, who impressed in his debut season by batting .316 with 11 home runs, nine doubles, and two triples, along with Owen May (.318 with 15 stolen bases) and Jake Schwartz, who hit .315 after transferring from College of the Canyons. Outfielder Aiden Arriaga also returns after posting a .421 on-base percentage and .397 slugging percentage, while catcher Tommy Molina brings continuity behind the plate. Collectively, the group retains its balance and defensive reliability even as it absorbs the loss of key production.

The lineup receives a significant infusion of power and experience with the addition of Tristan Moore, one of the most impactful transfers in Division II entering the season. Moore arrives from Division I New Orleans, where he was the 2023 Southland Conference Hitter of the Year and a Second Team ABCA All-Region selection after hitting .318 with 19 home runs. He followed that season with a .301 average and .607 slugging percentage in 2025, giving Point Loma a proven middle-of-the-order presence. Tyler Stull and Hank Smith also join the offense, with Smith offering additional two-way potential that could impact both lineup flexibility and bullpen usage.

Pitching represents the most significant variable in Point Loma’s 2026 outlook. None of last season’s regular starters return, leaving the rotation to be rebuilt almost entirely through transfers. Vaughn Neckar headlines the group as a physical right-hander with a power arm and extensive pedigree, including commitments to LSU and Oklahoma, USA Baseball gold medalist honors, four USA trials appearances, and selection in the MLB Draft by the Cleveland Guardians. Derek Silva arrives after earning First Team honors at San Diego Mesa with a 3.16 ERA and 94 strikeouts in 82⅔ innings across 15 starts. Glen Huggins adds experience after striking out 82 batters in 77⅔ innings as a First Team All-Conference selection in both 2023 and 2025 at Southwestern College. Tyler Pechetti rounds out the quartet after helping Skyline College to back-to-back JUCO conference championships.

Point Loma enters 2026 with a familiar formula on offense and an unfamiliar reality on the mound. If the rebuilt rotation settles quickly, the Sea Lions have the lineup depth and postseason experience to finally clear the Super Regional hurdle. If not, the margin that has defined recent seasons may once again prove decisive.

9. Seton Hill Griffins (23, 40–18)

Seton Hill enters the 2026 season with expectations forged through repetition rather than novelty. The Griffins capped another dominant run in 2025, finishing 40–18 overall while claiming their third straight PSAC West Division title, third consecutive NCAA Atlantic Regional championship, and third straight Super Regional appearance. That sustained success has entrenched Seton Hill among Division II’s national elite and shifted the evaluative lens from conference dominance to championship pursuit. With postseason familiarity now ingrained in the program, the Griffins open the year carrying both confidence and pressure.

The offense returns a core that blends speed, depth, and consistent production across the lineup. Jack Whalen remains a fixture at the top of the order after batting .318 with six triples and five home runs while continuing to rank among the PSAC’s most disruptive baserunners, averaging 33 stolen bases per season. Shortstop Owen Henne led the team with a .375 batting average, adding 14 doubles, eight home runs, and 23 stolen bases, while Jakob Haynes paced the Griffins with 12 home runs and posted a .393 on-base percentage. Freshman Brady McGuire emerged as an immediate contributor, starting all but two games and hitting .317 with 21 extra-base hits and 24 stolen bases, giving Seton Hill another dynamic presence capable of impacting games in multiple ways.

Further depth comes from the returns of Colin Ahr, who hit .314 as a regular starter, and Owen Mandler, who batted .318 in 35 games while stealing 12 bases. The lineup’s strength lies not in any single statistical outlier, but in its ability to apply sustained pressure through multiple skill sets. That balance has allowed Seton Hill to navigate postseason environments effectively, where adaptability often outweighs raw output.

While four pitchers who combined to start 53 of 58 games last season are no longer on the roster, Seton Hill’s trademark pitching depth provides continuity. Luke Deschenes is positioned for an expanded role after posting a 3.74 ERA across 13 appearances, striking out 36 batters while walking just nine. Evan Rossi returns after logging a 2.45 ERA in 16 appearances, and Cristian Zilli remains a reliable middle-relief option after holding opponents to a .238 batting average. Luke McCoy impressed as a newcomer with a 2.63 ERA over 13⅔ innings, adding another dependable arm to the mix.

Anchoring the staff is closer Zach Herb, who returns after posting a 1.52 ERA, recording eight saves, and striking out 36 batters in 35⅓ innings while limiting hitters to a .202 average. Transfer Adam Horst strengthens the staff further after logging 59⅔ innings with a 2.41 ERA and 66 strikeouts at Frederick CC. With depth across roles and proven late-inning reliability, Seton Hill’s pitching staff retains enough structure to absorb turnover if roles solidify early.

Seton Hill enters 2026 with fewer unanswered questions than most programs at this level, but also with an increasingly narrow definition of success. The Griffins have proven they can reach the doorstep of Cary. The challenge now is converting sustained proximity into arrival.

10. Grand Valley State Lakers (24, 43–14)

Grand Valley State enters the 2026 season carrying momentum rooted in tangible progress rather than projection. The Lakers finished 43–14 overall in 2025, placed second in the GLIAC regular-season standings, and hosted an NCAA Midwest Regional for the first time since 2006. That milestone marked a clear return to national relevance for a program that blended a veteran-heavy roster with emerging contributors across the diamond. With much of that core returning, Grand Valley State opens the season positioned to defend last year’s gains and test the upper tier of the rankings.

The offense is anchored by a seasoned infield group that provides both production and stability. The middle of the diamond features an all-region shortstop who reached base in 56 of 57 games, hit .341, stole 17 bases, and set a single-season school record with 73 runs scored. At first base, a powerful run producer returns after hitting .317 with 11 home runs and 11 doubles, while third base remains steady with an everyday starter who closed the year among the GLIAC’s most productive hitters. Second base adds defensive versatility with a standout who also hit .328 and contributed on the mound, giving the Lakers flexibility in roster deployment.

The outfield returns late-season contributors who played key roles down the stretch, including a hitter who batted .327 after assuming a regular role midyear and another who posted a .308 average with 11 stolen bases. Depth behind the plate remains intact with a returning senior catcher and an emerging young option. The lineup is further reinforced by transfers with both Division I and Division II experience, allowing Grand Valley State to maintain offensive continuity while managing matchups and fatigue.

Pitching depth shapes the Lakers’ ceiling entering 2026. The frontline returns a senior who made 12 starts, posted a 3.08 ERA, struck out 59 batters in 76 innings, and held opponents to a .231 batting average. He is joined by another starter who also logged a dozen starts while leading the team with 87 strikeouts in 69⅔ innings. The staff gains a significant boost with the return of two experienced arms who missed most of last season due to injury, including a graduate transfer with prior Division I experience and a right-hander who posted a 3.31 ERA over 73⅓ innings in 2024.

Additional depth arrives through multiple transfers, giving the Lakers increased flexibility across starting and relief roles. With more viable innings available than a season ago, Grand Valley State is better positioned to absorb the variability that accompanies postseason play.

Grand Valley State enters 2026 with a roster built to sustain relevance rather than rediscover it. The step forward has already been taken. Whether the Lakers can take the next one will depend on translating depth and experience into consistency when the margins narrow and expectations rise.

11. Colorado Mesa Mavericks (14, 42–14)

Colorado Mesa enters the 2026 season positioned once again as one of the most reliable powers in Division II baseball, built on sustained dominance in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference and a roster that consistently produces at a national level. The Mavericks are coming off a 42–14 campaign in 2025, including a commanding 26–4 mark in RMAC play, capturing the conference regular-season title before adding the RMAC Tournament championship with a decisive title-game win over MSU Denver. Nationally ranked throughout the year, Colorado Mesa reinforced its reputation as a program capable of winning both at altitude and on the road, a trait that continues to shape its postseason credibility.

Offensively, Colorado Mesa returns the core of one of the most explosive lineups in Division II. The Mavericks batted .355 and slugged .582 as a team last season, numbers that underscore the pressure the lineup applies from top to bottom. Cameron Cartwright returns after authoring one of the most remarkable individual seasons in recent Division II history, earning consensus First Team All-American honors after hitting .468 with 16 doubles, 21 home runs, and a staggering .968 slugging percentage. Cartwright’s ability to control at-bats and drive the baseball consistently set the tone for the offense. He is joined by Kolby Felix, who earned All-Region honors after batting .356 with 21 doubles and 13 home runs, giving the Mavericks another proven run producer capable of impacting games in multiple ways.

The middle infield remains intact with Kennedy Hara and Joey Blank returning. Hara, an All-RMAC Second Team selection, hit .289 with eight doubles and four home runs while providing defensive stability, and Blank owns a .351 career average across two seasons at Colorado Mesa. Noah Neufeld showed promise in limited action, batting .346 in a dozen games, while the lineup gains additional depth with Landon Nunes, who started 42 games at UC Riverside, and Tate Blasi, who hit .317 with eight home runs at Barton Community College. Collectively, the group retains both its production and its identity, reducing volatility even as expectations rise.

Pitching remains the variable that will define Colorado Mesa’s postseason ceiling. Liam Hohenstein returns after earning All-RMAC First Team honors, appearing in 14 games with 11 starts and striking out 51 batters in 41⅓ innings. His ability to miss bats while navigating the hitter-friendly RMAC environment provides a reliable foundation. Sage Peterson adds veteran stability after logging 30⅓ innings with a 4.45 ERA across nine appearances, including six starts. The bullpen also benefits from Cayden Clark, a former Utah Tech outfielder who emerged as a key relief option, leading the team with 18 appearances and throwing 25⅓ innings.

The staff gains additional upside with the return of Evan Bunevich, who missed last season due to injury after previously earning All-RMAC Honorable Mention recognition, and Jackson Lapiner, a former Cal State Fullerton signee returning from Tommy John surgery. Additions Gabe Jacobs (Azusa Pacific) and Rafael Espinoza (Seattle) further deepen the pitching mix. Colorado Mesa enters 2026 with an offense capable of overwhelming opponents; how far the Mavericks advance will hinge on whether the pitching staff can consistently convert that advantage into postseason wins.

12. Central Missouri Mules (2, 48–14)

Central Missouri enters the 2026 season carrying the weight of both recent success and unfinished business. The Mules capped the 2025 campaign with a 48–14 overall record and a 29–7 mark in MIAA play, earning the program’s 31st regular-season conference title and 21st NCAA Division II Regional Championship. Their postseason run culminated in a return to Cary and a national runner-up finish, falling to Tampa in the best-of-three championship series. For a program accustomed to sustained excellence, the season reinforced both its standing among Division II’s elite and the narrow margins that separate championship outcomes.

The 2025 season also highlighted Central Missouri’s individual talent pipeline, as three Mules were selected on day two of the MLB Draft. Right-hander Nathan Hall was taken by the New York Mets in the sixth round, J.D. McReynolds went to the Texas Rangers in the 10th round, and catcher Chase Heath was selected by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 20th round, marking the program’s highest draft total in two decades. Entering 2026, the roster features new faces but retains enough experience to remain competitive at a national level.

Offensively, the Mules return a solid core led by 2025 MIAA Freshman of the Year Cole Kreisel, who hit .328 with a .476 on-base percentage and stole 13 bases, providing table-setting ability at the top of the lineup. Grant Hollister returns after earning Honorable Mention All-MIAA honors with a .333 batting average, while first baseman Chase Wilcox adds both power and defense after batting .278 with eight home runs, a .401 OBP, and 16 stolen bases while earning MIAA Gold Glove recognition. Senior Cody Moore also returns after hitting .348 in limited action last season. The lineup gains impact newcomers in Kaiden Ashton, who hit .414 at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M, Michael Smosna, a Division III standout who slashed .438 with 18 doubles, seven triples, and eight home runs at McMurry, and Jackson Helberg, who hit .421 in limited action at Colorado Mesa.

Pitching depth remains a defining feature of Central Missouri’s profile. Jack Scott returns after throwing 85⅔ innings with a 4.41 ERA, while Jack Kreisman brings consistency after striking out 116 batters over 142⅔ career innings across 37 appearances. Sawyer Allen could transition into a full-time starting role after logging 48⅔ innings in 2025. The staff adds size and upside with Greyson Chappel, a former Miami (Ohio) signee who pitched at Paris JC, and Gavin Killion, who posted a 3.53 ERA at Kansas City Kansas CC. The bullpen returns four relievers with at least 20 innings last season, led by Sam Wyrick, who held opponents to a .218 batting average over 34 innings. Central Missouri enters 2026 with a roster built to compete immediately, but the standard remains clear: proximity to Cary is no longer enough.

13. Pittsburg State Gorillas (8, 42–12)

Pittsburg State enters the 2026 season in transition after one of the most successful years in program history. The Gorillas finished 42–12 in 2025, placing second in the MIAA standings and sweeping through the opening round of NCAA Regional play before falling just two wins short of Cary. The postseason marked the final campaign of longtime head coach Bob Fornelli, closing an era defined by consistency and competitive relevance. With much of last season’s senior-laden roster departing, Pittsburg State opens the year with significant turnover but no shortage of ambition.

Offensively, the Gorillas return one of the most dominant players in Division II baseball in senior outfielder Dagen Brewer. Brewer hit .380 with 19 doubles and 24 home runs last season, leading the MIAA in home runs, RBIs, and slugging percentage (.866) while setting school records for single-season home runs and single-game RBIs. Surrounding Brewer is a largely rebuilt lineup featuring a collection of transfers with varied backgrounds. Isaac Webb arrives after stops at Grayson College, Eastern Oklahoma State, Arkansas, and Texas A&M–Corpus Christi, where he hit .314 with 41 stolen bases over two seasons. Catcher Grant Nottlemann brings Division I experience from Sam Houston State, while Jadyn McNealy, Landin Midget, and Eric Bacon all arrive from Cowley CC after standout JUCO careers.

The offensive rebuild continues with Cooper Wesslund, a former Division I player who hit .426 with 32 stolen bases at Hutchinson CC, giving the Gorillas another high-contact option capable of immediate impact. Collectively, the lineup features athleticism and speed but will require cohesion early in the season to offset the loss of veteran continuity.

Pitching mirrors the offense in both opportunity and uncertainty. Ty Blecha is the lone returning arm expected to see significant innings after being limited by injury last season, bringing experience from multiple programs including Charleston Southern and Missouri State. Zach Voss returns after a medical redshirt following time at McNeese State, and Brady Stuewe joins the staff after stops at Cloud County CC and Kansas State. Preston Giltner adds experience after appearing in 36 games over two seasons at Central Oklahoma, while Bradyn McClure brings durability after striking out 101 batters in 100⅓ innings at Butler CC. Cross Dowd and Porter Starnes round out a pitching staff defined by depth and uncertainty. Pittsburg State’s ceiling in 2026 will depend on how quickly this rebuilt roster forms identity and cohesion.

14. Young Harris Mountain Lions (22, 40–17)

Young Harris enters the 2026 season with momentum earned through consistent execution rather than flash. Under head coach Stephen Waggener, the Mountain Lions finished 40–17 in 2025, were named Conference Carolinas Regular Season Co-Champions, and advanced to the conference tournament championship game. The season reaffirmed Young Harris’ position among the league’s elite and set the foundation for continued relevance entering the new year.

Offensively, the Mountain Lions return a deep and productive core. Senior infielder Drew Bray headlines the group after slashing .354/.488/.480 and earning First Team All-Conference Carolinas and All-Defensive Team honors. Designated hitter Kade Smallwood appeared in every game last season and delivered consistent power, batting .343 with 18 home runs. Sophomore Jonny Smith emerged as an everyday presence as a freshman, hitting .346 with eight home runs while handling second base. Catcher Jack Enrico adds veteran stability after batting .310 with nine home runs, following a freshman season in which he led the team with a .390 average.

Additional depth comes from Jackson Morgan and Jeo Hernandez, while the lineup gains impact with the addition of Keypher Contreras, who hit .397 with nine home runs and 18 stolen bases at Calhoun CC. Contreras brings both athleticism and upside, further strengthening a lineup already built around balance and contact.

Pitching depth shapes Young Harris’ ceiling. Austin Ritchie anchors the rotation after logging 80⅓ innings across 17 appearances with 14 starts, posting a 3.81 ERA and throwing three complete games. Cole Molina adds durability after throwing 75⅓ innings at Wallace State with a 3.58 ERA. Redshirt freshman Drew Sofield, previously rated the No. 2 left-handed prep pitcher in Georgia, adds high-end potential after returning from Auburn. The bullpen remains steady with Trey Griffin, Brock Parker, and Sam Neal returning. Young Harris enters 2026 with stability across the roster; advancement will depend on translating that balance into postseason execution.

15. Lenoir-Rhyne Bears (3, 50–15)

Lenoir-Rhyne enters the 2026 season following one of the most explosive offensive years in Division II history, a campaign that redefined both the program’s ceiling and its national profile. The Bears finished 50–15 in 2025, becoming one of just three teams nationally to reach the 50-win mark, and surged from just outside the preseason rankings to the NCAA Division II semifinals in Cary, North Carolina. Their postseason run was powered by historic offensive output, culminating in a season that saw Lenoir-Rhyne set an NCAA Division II record with 137 home runs while ranking third all-time in total bases with 1,366. While that roster underwent significant turnover in the offseason, the scale of last year’s production continues to frame expectations entering 2026.

At the center of that offensive identity is Mackenzie Wainwright, who returns after authoring one of the most remarkable individual seasons ever recorded at this level. Wainwright set single-season Division II records for hits (121) and total bases (234), batting .437 with 26 doubles, six triples, and 25 home runs while starting all 65 games. He earned South Atlantic Conference Player of the Year and Southeast Region Player of the Year honors and was named a consensus All-American. Wainwright’s ability to drive the baseball to all fields while maintaining elite contact rates made him the focal point of the lineup and continues to shape how opposing pitching staffs approach the Bears.

Around Wainwright, the lineup has been retooled rather than rebuilt. Andrew Stillinger and Seth Christmas return as experienced contributors, while center fielder Trent Murchison arrives after a standout season at Gaston College in which he hit .333 and stole 51 bases, adding a speed element capable of altering game flow. Lleyton Lackey joins the roster after three seasons at Clemson, bringing Division I experience and defensive versatility, while Sylas Boris arrives from Northwest Florida State after batting .351. Collectively, the group reflects a shift from the overwhelming depth of last season’s “Bears Bomb Squad” toward a lineup that still carries power but leans more heavily on balance and athleticism.

Whether Lenoir-Rhyne can replicate anything close to its 2025 run will hinge largely on pitching stability. Kellen Gradisar returns as the most proven starter after making 16 starts last season, logging 85⅔ innings, posting a 3.99 ERA, and earning 11 wins. Gradisar’s durability provides a critical anchor after the departure of several frontline arms. The rotation is expected to be supplemented by transfers Michael Joyce and Hugo Tafoya, both of whom are positioned to take on significant innings early. Joyce brings consistency after posting a 2.81 ERA over 83⅓ innings at Florence-Darlington Technical College, while Tafoya adds further depth and flexibility.

Additional arms factor prominently into the staff’s construction. Michael Burnley returns after appearing in 14 games last season, Preston Drebes brings experience from earlier rotation work, and Julian Castro adds another capable option for middle innings. The bullpen will require definition early in the season as roles solidify, particularly given the workload demands created by last year’s offensive pace and postseason volume.

Lenoir-Rhyne enters 2026 in a position few programs occupy comfortably: proven national relevance paired with unavoidable regression risk. The Bears no longer need to announce themselves offensively, but sustaining postseason viability will depend on how quickly the pitching staff stabilizes behind Gradisar and whether the rebalanced lineup can maintain pressure without relying on historic output. Last season set a benchmark that may never be matched statistically. This season will determine how enduring the program’s place among Division II’s elite truly is.

16. Angelo State Rams (6, 48–10)

Angelo State enters the 2026 season navigating a rare recalibration period after several years spent setting the national pace. The Rams concluded the 2025 campaign with a 48–10 overall record and a dominant 39–7 mark in Lone Star Conference play, capturing both the LSC regular-season and tournament championships. For much of the year, Angelo State held the No. 2 position in the Perfect Game rankings and appeared positioned for a fifth consecutive trip to the NCAA Division II Baseball Championship in Cary. That run was ultimately halted in Super Regional play by conference newcomer UT Tyler, marking a postseason ending that underscored both the Rams’ continued elite standing and the narrowing margins at the top of the division. Entering 2026, Angelo State remains a program defined by expectation, even as roster turnover reshapes its immediate outlook.

Offensively, the Rams return several proven contributors capable of stabilizing a lineup undergoing transition. Second baseman Austin Beck remains a catalyst after a standout season in which he hit .376 with 11 doubles, six home runs, and 38 stolen bases, drawing 37 walks and posting a .500 on-base percentage. Beck’s combination of plate discipline and speed continues to set the tone for the offense. First baseman Chase Pendley returns following a strong season in which he batted .390 with a .461 OBP, providing middle-of-the-order consistency and leadership after battling injuries earlier in his career. Behind the plate, Blake Wilhoite brings reliability and experience, hitting .297 while throwing out 14 of 32 attempted base stealers and managing one of the deepest pitching staffs in the conference. Christian Garnette, a member of the program since 2022, adds positional flexibility and depth after hitting .294 across 64 career games.

Much of the remaining everyday lineup will be shaped by transfers, increasing the importance of early cohesion. Garrett Wallace arrives from Louisiana Tech, bringing Division I experience and defensive versatility. Shortstop Payton “Peewee” Bush joins the Rams after hitting .364 at Amarillo College, adding both contact ability and athleticism up the middle. Outfielder Jordan Kelly brings three seasons of Division I starting experience from Princeton, offering a steady presence in the outfield. Together, the group gives Angelo State a blend of experience and upside, though the offense’s ceiling will depend on how quickly new pieces integrate around returning anchors.

Pitching presents the largest variable in Angelo State’s 2026 profile. Much of last season’s rotation and bullpen production has departed, forcing the Rams to lean on a mix of returning arms and newcomers. Sophomores Josh Reed and Chance Douglas return after logging innings last season, with Reed striking out 29 batters in 24⅔ innings and showing flashes of late-inning potential. Division I transfer Garret Bauman adds upside after appearing in 20 games at Sam Houston State and following that with a dominant summer in the Alaska Baseball League, where he posted a 1.29 ERA over 21 relief innings. Isaac Godard, a transfer from McLennan Community College, enters the mix after recording a 2.70 ERA across 20 appearances, while redshirts Jude Stephens and David Dressendorfer provide additional depth. Freshman Ridge Morgan rounds out a pitching staff defined more by projection than certainty.

Angelo State enters 2026 with fewer known quantities than in recent seasons, but the program’s foundation remains intact. The Rams’ ceiling will be determined by how quickly the pitching staff stabilizes and whether the retooled lineup can maintain offensive efficiency against top-tier competition. The standard has not changed. The path to meeting it has.

17. Florida Southern Mocs (15, 38–15–1)

Florida Southern enters the 2026 season positioned to build on a resurgence that reestablished the program’s national profile. In his first season at the helm, head coach Rick O’Dette guided the Mocs to a 38–15–1 record in 2025, including a strong finish in Sunshine State Conference play that placed Florida Southern back among Division II’s postseason contenders. After spending much of the early season outside the national spotlight, the Mocs surged down the stretch, earning multiple All-Region and All-Conference selections and reaffirming the program’s long-standing identity as one of the division’s most competitive mainstays. Entering 2026, the question is no longer whether Florida Southern can compete nationally, but whether it can sustain momentum in a deeper field.

Offensively, the lineup is anchored by one of the division’s most dynamic leadoff threats in Mikey Scott. A two-time All-Sunshine State Conference selection, Scott started all 54 games last season, leading the team with 83 hits while batting .371 and stealing 51 bases. His ability to reach base, create pressure, and impact games defensively in center field continues to shape the Mocs’ offensive identity. Colby Brewington returns after limited action in 2025 and is expected to assume a larger role following a prior commitment to Georgia Southern, bringing additional power potential. The offense also gains immediate impact with Amir Streeter, a transfer from Dyersburg State Community College who hit .321 with 24 extra-base hits and 31 stolen bases, adding both speed and run production.

The infield reflects a blend of returners and new contributors. Shortstop Ryan Jenkins returns to Florida Southern after previous stops at Lake-Sumter and Carson-Newman, bringing defensive reliability and a .264 batting average. Second baseman Gavin Smith arrives from Indiana Kokomo after batting .332 over three seasons, contributing four triples and 27 stolen bases. Carson Brady is expected to step into a starting role at third base after missing last season, while Eli Thurmond adds speed and depth following a .263 campaign at Lake-Sumter. Collectively, the group emphasizes athleticism and situational execution rather than reliance on any single offensive profile.

Pitching depth remains one of Florida Southern’s defining strengths. Sachem Ramos returns after anchoring the rotation in 2025, logging 98⅔ innings, earning 11 wins, and securing All-Conference honors. Ty Bradley, a former Ball State pitcher, is expected to transition into a more prominent role after limited action last season, while graduate transfer Christian Carew adds experience after appearing in 31 games at Eastern Illinois. Evan Parmer joins the staff following a stint at VMI, providing another Division I arm capable of filling multiple roles. The bullpen retains stability through Casey O’Dell, who posted a 2.91 ERA, and John Essig, who struck out 34 batters in 26⅓ innings at Ashland, offering late-inning reliability.

Florida Southern enters 2026 with balance across the roster and a clearer sense of identity than a year ago. Sustaining that progress will depend on pitching consistency against top-tier competition and continued offensive pressure at the top of the order. The foundation has been reset. The next step is confirming that last season’s surge was not a peak, but a baseline.

18. Westmont Warriors (13, 43–14)

Westmont enters the 2026 season as the PacWest’s defining program, having separated itself through consistency rather than scale. The Warriors finished 43–14 overall in 2025, posted a 33–10 conference record, and completed a sweep of both the PacWest regular-season and tournament championships. Nationally ranked for much of the season, Westmont reinforced its reputation as a program capable of sustaining success despite frequent roster turnover. With six position players, two weekday starters, and the team’s closer departing, the offseason brought change, but expectations inside the program remain firmly anchored.

The offensive identity leans on versatility and adaptability rather than raw volume. Grant Yzermans returns as a stabilizing presence in the middle of the order after hitting .317 with eight home runs, 13 doubles, and 26 RBIs while converting all 12 stolen base attempts. Jesse Di Maggio emerged immediately as a freshman, batting .341 with 12 doubles and 10 home runs, giving the lineup a power element that matured quickly. Colin Callahan returns after splitting time across the infield, hitting .274 last season following a .393 campaign the year prior, and continues to offer positional flexibility and contact ability.

Additional returning contributors shape lineup continuity. Joseph Castillo and Tanner Beltowski provide depth and situational value, while Zach Mora and Isaac Veal remain capable of stepping into expanded roles. Joey Rico, primarily a pitcher over the last two seasons, brings two-way potential after appearing in the outfield during the postseason and could see increased offensive responsibility. Rather than rebuilding production in bulk, Westmont has focused on maintaining lineup balance and defensive reliability, traits that have consistently translated in conference play.

Pitching structure continues to define Westmont’s competitive model. Rather than relying on a traditional fixed rotation, head coach Paul Svagdis deploys arms situationally, emphasizing matchup control and workload management. Rico returns as the most experienced starter after making 14 starts and throwing 75⅓ innings last season. Caden Beloian and Hunter Hammond bring flexibility after handling both starting and relief roles, while Josh Hickey and Willis Lacy add veteran depth capable of bridging innings. The staff gains a notable addition in Noah Williams, a former Atlanta Braves draft pick, whose professional pedigree introduces upside to the pitching mix.

While the departure of last season’s closer creates an early-season question, Westmont’s bullpen depth has historically allowed roles to emerge organically. The Warriors enter 2026 with fewer defined labels but ample options, a familiar configuration for a program that has repeatedly navigated turnover without sacrificing results. Westmont’s ceiling remains tied to execution rather than talent accumulation, and its ability to maintain conference dominance will once again depend on how efficiently roles crystallize across a long season.

19. Francis Marion Patriots (NR, 40–13)

Francis Marion enters the 2026 season positioned as one of the most balanced and quietly dangerous programs in the Southeast. The Patriots finished 40–13 in 2025 and remained competitive throughout Peach Belt Conference play, pairing an efficient offense with a pitching staff that limited volatility across series. While FMU fell just short of a deeper postseason run, the season reinforced the program’s upward trajectory and established a foundation built on depth rather than specialization.

The lineup returns its centerpiece in first baseman Charlie Bussey III, the reigning Conference Carolinas Player of the Year and FMU Team MVP. Bussey delivered a dominant campaign, batting .437 with 19 doubles, 11 home runs, and 15 stolen bases while earning All-Conference and All-Defensive honors. His ability to impact games in multiple phases continues to anchor the offense. Daniel Hussey returns after missing much of last season due to injury, bringing Division I experience from Central Connecticut State and providing an additional run-producing option. Catcher Dariel Villaran Goundis adds stability behind the plate after batting .309 and handling a deep pitching staff.

The infield remains experienced with Will Dorrell returning after starting all 53 games last season, hitting .282 with 19 doubles and stealing 17 bases. The lineup gains further depth through targeted additions. Riley Orr arrives after slashing .362/.453/.624 at Auburn Montgomery, adding immediate extra-base potential. Matthew Manuel joins from Georgia Southwestern State, while Ethan McAnally brings power after posting a .621 slugging percentage at Coastal Alabama Community College. Together, the group reinforces an offense that pressures opponents through balance rather than dependence on a single profile.

Pitching construction offers Francis Marion its clearest path to advancement. Robbie Jordan returns after missing the 2024 season due to injury, providing experience at the front of the staff. Tyler Skeen arrives following a standout freshman season at West Liberty, where he earned Mountain East Conference Freshman of the Year honors and brings immediate rotation potential. The staff also features Garrett Long, a true freshman with upside, and transfer Eze Rojas, who adds flexibility across roles. Jackson Madden returns after appearing in 17 games last season, contributing bullpen stability and familiarity with late-inning environments.

Francis Marion enters 2026 with a roster that minimizes unknowns while preserving upside. The Patriots’ ability to progress beyond conference contention will hinge on whether the pitching staff can establish defined roles early and whether the offense can sustain efficiency against higher-velocity arms. The pieces are in place; converting balance into postseason advancement remains the next step.

20. Augustana Vikings (NR, 39–16)

Augustana enters the 2026 season with optimism shaped by youth-driven progress rather than postseason outcome. The Vikings finished 39–16 in 2025 and advanced to the NSIC Championship Game, falling just short of an NCAA Tournament berth for the first time since 2017. While the absence from postseason play marked a deviation from recent history, the season also delivered meaningful development across a roster that leaned heavily on underclassmen. With much of that core returning, Augustana opens the year positioned to translate experience into results.

The offense returns a group that matured rapidly. Freshman Carter Heinsch emerged as an immediate contributor, slashing .364/.459/.527 while providing positional versatility. Kobe Eikmeier added consistency with a .314 average, and Bjorn Lind contributed a .321 mark while adjusting to the collegiate level. Troy Berg delivered speed and production, batting .327 and stealing 21 bases, shaping the top of the lineup. Veteran Joshua Koskie returns for his fourth season, offering leadership and familiarity with conference pitching, while first baseman Ryan Pinnow provides steadiness in the middle of the order.

The lineup gains further competition through Brandon Weigel, who arrives from Ellsworth Community College after hitting .339, adding both depth and internal pressure for playing time. Collectively, the offense reflects a unit built on contact, speed, and incremental pressure rather than power concentration, an approach that aligns with Augustana’s recent success in league play.

Pitching development will determine the Vikings’ ceiling. Ashton Michek returns as a stabilizing presence after compiling a 3.47 career ERA, providing reliability across multiple seasons. Mariano Gomez impressed in limited action with a 2.45 ERA, while Joel Van De Stroet and Will Simmons offer additional depth capable of absorbing innings. Will Henry adds further projection as roles continue to solidify. The staff remains young, but the experience gained last season has narrowed the gap between potential and performance.

Augustana enters 2026 with a roster better defined than a year ago and a clearer sense of identity. The Vikings’ challenge lies in converting development into execution when margins tighten late in the season. With a youthful core now seasoned by pressure, Augustana is positioned to reenter the postseason conversation if pitching consistency aligns with offensive growth.

21. Wingate Bulldogs (NR, 36–18)

Few programs in the Southeast have navigated as many competitive cycles over the past decade as Wingate, and the Bulldogs open 2026 attempting to reassert themselves after a season that was productive but incomplete. Wingate finished 36–18 overall in 2025 and remained competitive throughout South Atlantic Conference play, yet the year ultimately fell short of postseason expectations for a program accustomed to national relevance. With a veteran roster returning and a mix of impact additions arriving, the Bulldogs begin the year positioned at an inflection point between recalibration and resurgence.

The offensive foundation rests on a core that blends experience with athleticism. Shortstop Josh Ruggiero returns as one of the team’s most consistent producers after batting .327 with 15 doubles, six home runs, and 22 stolen bases, while providing steady defense up the middle. Outfielder Carson Webb adds middle-of-the-order power after hitting .301 with eight home runs and 41 RBIs, and first baseman Tyler Baker returns after a strong season in which he hit .315 and posted a .402 on-base percentage. Together, the trio forms a stable backbone capable of anchoring the lineup across conference play.

Additional returning contributors lengthen the order. Catcher Will Simmons brings durability after starting 52 games last season, while infielder Logan Daniels offers positional flexibility and contact ability after hitting .289. The offense gains further reinforcement through transfers, most notably Ryan Thompson, who arrives from a Division I program with two seasons of starting experience, and Caleb Morgan, a junior college standout who hit .352 with 17 doubles and 28 stolen bases. The collection of returners and newcomers gives Wingate a lineup built to apply pressure through contact and speed rather than relying on isolated power.

Pitching depth remains the defining variable. The Bulldogs return several arms who logged meaningful innings last season, led by right-hander Ethan Carroll, who posted a 3.61 ERA across 64⅓ innings with 58 strikeouts. Southpaw Lucas Grant adds balance after throwing 49 innings and holding opponents to a .238 average, while reliever Andrew Wilkes emerged as a reliable late-inning option, striking out 31 batters in 28 innings. Together, the group provides a workable foundation but leaves room for growth at the front of the staff.

The rotation and bullpen are supplemented by a wave of newcomers. Transfer Michael Hensley arrives after earning all-conference honors at Walters State, where he posted a 2.89 ERA with 87 strikeouts, adding immediate rotation potential. Freshman arms with projection round out the staff, increasing depth but also placing a premium on early role definition. For Wingate, the path forward is less about reinventing identity and more about tightening execution. The pieces are present to reenter the postseason conversation; whether they do so will depend on consistency against the league’s top-tier lineups and the staff’s ability to shorten games late.

22. Davenport Panthers (NR, 37–17)

Davenport opens the new year carrying the profile of a program that has quietly built momentum through sustained success rather than headline results. The Panthers finished 37–17 overall in 2025 and captured the GLIAC Tournament championship, extending a stretch of consistent winning seasons that has gradually elevated the program’s regional standing. While the season ended prior to a deep NCAA run, the conference title reinforced Davenport’s ability to navigate pressure environments, a trait that shapes expectations entering 2026.

The lineup returns several key contributors capable of stabilizing run production. Outfielder Nick DesJardins remains a focal point after batting .348 with 13 doubles, six home runs, and a .421 on-base percentage, providing both table-setting and run-driving ability. Middle infielder Luke Dykstra adds speed and contact after hitting .319 with 24 stolen bases, while first baseman Matt Colvin returns after delivering a .301 average and consistent gap power. Together, the group reflects an offense built on balance and efficiency rather than volume.

Depth across the lineup continues to be a strength. Catcher Ryan Boucher brings experience after starting 49 games last season, handling the pitching staff while contributing a .286 average. Infielders Caleb Johnson and Marcus Hill offer versatility and defensive reliability, allowing Davenport to adjust alignments without sacrificing consistency. The Panthers also add impact through transfers, including Jake Peterson, who hit .335 at Lake Michigan College, and Aaron Fields, a Division I transfer whose speed adds another dimension to the offense. The result is a lineup capable of sustaining pressure across innings rather than relying on extended rallies.

Pitching construction remains the clearest determinant of Davenport’s ceiling. The staff returns its most reliable arm in senior right-hander Evan Kline, who logged 72 innings with a 3.42 ERA and struck out 68 batters while serving as the team’s Friday option. Left-hander Cole Matthews adds balance after posting a 3.76 ERA across 58 innings, and reliever Tyler Brooks emerged as a dependable late-inning presence with 10 saves and a 2.91 ERA. The bullpen’s ability to protect narrow leads proved critical during the conference tournament run and remains a defining asset.

Additional arms factor prominently into the mix, including sophomore starters who gained experience last season and a pair of junior college transfers expected to compete for rotation spots. With more viable innings available than a year ago, Davenport is better positioned to manage the variability that accompanies postseason play. The Panthers begin 2026 as a team with a high floor and a gradually rising ceiling. Converting conference success into deeper postseason relevance will require continued pitching stability and sustained offensive efficiency when margins tighten.

23. Cal State Monterey Bay Otters (16, 39–19)

Few programs in the West have demonstrated the year-to-year consistency Cal State Monterey Bay has established over the past half decade, and the Otters return in 2026 carrying both expectation and proof. CSUMB finished 39–19 in 2025, went 26–14 in CCAA play, and captured the NCAA West Regional championship before advancing to the Super Regional round for the third consecutive season. While the postseason again ended one step short of Cary, the ability to repeatedly emerge from a deep and volatile region continues to anchor Monterey Bay’s national standing.

The offensive profile reflects continuity despite turnover. Center fielder Noah Zertuche returns as the table-setter after hitting .307 with nine home runs, 16 doubles, and consistent production at the top of the order. His blend of speed and contact remains central to the Otters’ approach. JP Avila brings athleticism to the outfield after appearing in 16 games at NAIA powerhouse Lewis-Clark State, while Bobby Benavidez returns after three seasons at La Sierra, where he batted .383 with a .470 on-base percentage, providing a high-contact option capable of lengthening the lineup.

Behind the plate, Connor Smith brings Division I experience after two seasons at Sierra College followed by time at Santa Clara, where he appeared in 22 games. His presence stabilizes both the defense and the pitching staff. Xander Sielken adds power potential after earning Perfect Game recognition and providing pop in limited action last season. The infield returns multiple contributors who handled everyday roles in 2025, preserving defensive reliability even as offensive roles adjust.

Roster construction again leans heavily on targeted transfers. Several additions from junior college programs are expected to compete immediately, reinforcing a pattern that has allowed Monterey Bay to replace lost production without sacrificing cohesion. Rather than chasing one-for-one statistical replication, the Otters continue to prioritize balance, defense, and situational execution, traits that have translated consistently in postseason environments.

Pitching depth remains the defining feature of Monterey Bay’s national relevance. The Otters return multiple arms capable of working in both starting and relief roles, a necessity in the West Region’s compressed postseason format. The rotation features experienced returners who logged significant innings last season, supported by a bullpen that has repeatedly proven capable of handling elimination games. Transfers add further depth, ensuring the staff can absorb workload without overextending individual arms.

CSUMB enters 2026 with one of the highest floors in the region. The question is no longer whether the Otters can reach the Super Regional stage, but whether incremental gains in offensive efficiency and late-inning execution can finally tip the balance. The margin has been thin for several seasons. How it resolves will define whether Monterey Bay remains a perennial near-miss or takes the final step forward.

24. Harding Bisons (NR, 41–12)

Harding arrives in 2026 following a season that reintroduced the program into the national conversation through sustained offensive pressure and postseason competitiveness. The Bisons finished 41–12 in 2025, captured the Great American Conference regular-season title, and spent much of the year ranked among the nation’s top programs. While the postseason concluded earlier than hoped, the broader trajectory signaled a program capable of competing well beyond conference boundaries.

The offense returns its central figure in first baseman Carter Davidson, who delivered a dominant season by batting .389 with 20 doubles, 14 home runs, and 65 RBIs while anchoring the middle of the order. Davidson’s ability to drive the baseball consistently created run-producing opportunities throughout the lineup. Around him, Harding brings back several experienced contributors who formed the core of last season’s production. Outfielders and middle infielders who started regularly in 2025 return, preserving defensive continuity and lineup familiarity.

Additional offensive depth comes through returning underclassmen who gained extended experience during the conference schedule, as well as junior college additions expected to compete for immediate roles. The Bisons’ approach emphasizes contact quality and run creation rather than pure power, allowing the offense to sustain pressure across long stretches of games rather than relying on isolated bursts.

The pitching staff presents both promise and uncertainty. Harding must replace key innings from last season’s rotation, creating opportunities for arms that worked primarily in support roles a year ago. Several returners logged meaningful relief innings in 2025 and are expected to transition into expanded responsibilities. Junior college transfers add competition and depth, particularly in the rotation, while holdovers provide familiarity with conference opponents and situational demands.

Late-inning stability remains a focal point. The bullpen returns arms that demonstrated reliability in conference play, though defined roles will need to emerge early. Harding’s ability to protect narrow leads was a key component of last season’s success, and replicating that efficiency will be critical as competition stiffens.

Harding opens 2026 with momentum earned rather than assumed. The offensive foundation is proven, and the roster retains enough experience to remain competitive immediately. Whether the Bisons can translate regular-season success into a deeper postseason run will depend on how quickly the pitching staff solidifies and whether the offense can maintain efficiency against top-end velocity.

25. West Alabama Tigers (NR, 36–18)

West Alabama rounds out the rankings as a program trending upward after translating athleticism and depth into postseason relevance. The Tigers finished 36–18 in 2025, captured the Gulf South Conference Tournament championship, and earned an NCAA South Regional berth, reinforcing the program’s return to the national stage. While the postseason run was brief, the path there reflected tangible progress and set a foundation for continued growth.

The offense returns several key contributors capable of sustaining pressure. The middle of the lineup features experienced bats who provided consistent production last season, supported by speed at the top of the order that allowed West Alabama to manufacture runs. Multiple position players return after starting the majority of games in 2025, preserving defensive continuity and lineup familiarity.

Roster additions focus on athleticism and versatility. Transfers from junior college programs are expected to compete immediately, particularly in the outfield and middle infield, reinforcing the Tigers’ emphasis on range and run prevention. Rather than reshaping the lineup, the additions deepen it, allowing West Alabama to manage matchups and fatigue more effectively across conference play.

Pitching depth underpins the Tigers’ ability to remain competitive. Several arms return after logging significant innings last season, including starters capable of navigating multiple times through opposing lineups. The bullpen retains contributors who handled late-inning responsibilities during the GSC tournament run, providing a baseline of reliability. Additional transfers add competition and innings flexibility, critical in a league known for offensive variability.

West Alabama enters 2026 with a roster built to remain competitive within the Gulf South and capable of creating postseason disruption. The Tigers’ ceiling will depend on whether pitching consistency can hold against higher-ranked opponents and whether the offense can continue to generate pressure without sacrificing efficiency. As the final team in the rankings, West Alabama represents both stability and upward momentum, traits that often prove decisive once the season begins.

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College | Story | 2/10/2026

Conference Preview: MAC

Tyler Kotila

2026 College Preview Index | Preseason Top 25 | Preseason Collegiate All-Americans For all of Perfect Game's conference previews as part of the 2026 college baseball preview content, the 2025 records and all-conference teams are available for free. The conference top prospects and individual team breakdowns can be viewed with a subscription. 2025 Records Teams are listed in alphabetical order* School W L W L Akron 20 34 9 21 Ball State 36 22 21 9 Bowling Green 33 22 19 11 Central Michigan 20 35 11 19 Eastern Michigan 21 30 12 18 Kent State 38 18 23 7 Massachusetts* 14 34 7 23 Miami 35 23 23 7 Northern Illinois 21 33 9 21 Ohio 14 37 9 21 Toledo 32 29 17 13 Western Michigan 19 32 12 18 *record in the A-10 Preseason All-Conference Team Pos. Name School Stats/Notes C Brody Williams Kent State .341-7-53; .457 OBP w/ zone awareness, leader on both sides, power in the...

High School | General | 2/11/2026

Southwest Region Top Teams

Tyler Russo

Southwest All Region & Top Tools Rk Southwest Record 1 Casteel (AZ) 23-10 2 Basic (NV) 25-7 3 Corona Del Sol (AZ) 27-6 4 Faith Lutheran (NV) 22-18 5 Brophy College Prep (AZ) 16-13 6 Regis Jesuit (CO) 22-9 7 Queen Creek (AZ) 18-13 8 Spanish Fork (UT) 18-17 9 Mountain Ridge (UT) 20-12 10 Liberty (AZ) 17-13 11 Bishop Gorman (NV) 19-14 12 Rio Rancho (NM) 23-7 13 Cherry Creek (CO) 23-5-1 14 Palo Verde (NV) 24-10 15 Sandra Day O'Connor (AZ) 21-12 16 Pleasant Grove (UT) 23-6 17 La Cueva (NM) 25-4 18 Desert Mountain (AZ) 16-12 19 Snow Canyon (UT) 23-8 20 Hamilton (AZ) 25-9 21 Millennium (AZ) 21-10 22 Centennial (NV) 24-9 23 Valley Christian (AZ) 29-2 24 Mountain Vista (CO) 15-9 25 Williams Field (AZ) 15-11

High School | General | 2/11/2026

Southwest All Region & Top Tools

David Rawnsley

SOUTHWEST REGION (AZ, NM, NV, UT, CO) The most dominant tool in the Southwest Region for the 2026 season is undoubtedly power at the plate, as most players featured below not only have the size and bat speed to drive the ball but have put up the numbers as well. While that isn’t exactly surprising given that virtually the entire region plays at elevation, it certainly stands out on the individual top prospects. The Region features four Perfect Game All-Americans in OF Ryan Harwood, IF Rookie Shepard and C Alain Gomez-Gudino and RHP Dylan Blomker. The 2027 class is looking very promising as well, with four juniors gaining mention on the All-Region team below and Arizona in particular having a very talented class. Keep an eye out especially for 2027 3B Colton Floyd (Corona Del Sol HS, Ariz.), one of the best and biggest power hitters in that class. Two Region...

Press Release | Press Release | 2/11/2026

Perfect Game Partners with Goodles

Perfect Game Staff

667 Progress Way | Sanford, FL 32771 | 319-298-2923 www.perfectgame.org | facebook.com/perfectgameusa | @PerfectGameUSA FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PERFECT GAME ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH GOODLES Sanford, Florida (Wednesday, February 11, 2026) - Perfect Game, the world’s largest youth baseball and softball platform and scouting service, today announced a new partnership with GOODLES, the brand that reimagined boxed mac and cheese, naming the brand the Official Mac & Cheese of Perfect Game. The collaboration will bring delicious, nutrient-packed mac and cheese to families and players during premiere events and tournaments. While practice makes perfect, a player’s diet can’t be...

High School | Rankings | 2/10/2026

Texas Region Top Teams

Tyler Russo

Texas All Region & Top Tools Rk Texas Record 1 Grapevine 36-3 2 Memorial 28-6-1 3 Lake Travis 28-12-3 4 Kingwood 39-4 5 Aledo 31-8 6 Atascocita 33-12-2 7 Calallen 35-2 8 Pleasant Grove 36-6 9 Prestonwood Christian 25-5 10 The Bennett School N/A 11 Lovejoy 30-9 12 Allen 16-16-1 13 Prosper 33-10-1 14 Flower Mound Marcus 30-13 15 Tomball 34-7-1 16 Waco Midway 35-8 17 Dallas Jesuit 23-9-1 18 Flower Mound 21-12 19 Buda Johnson 26-13 20 The Woodlands 29-6-1 21 Katy Taylor 26-13-1 22 Rockwall Heath 15-9 23 Rockwall 29-10 24 Lutheran South 34-3-1 25 Keller 29-11

College | Story | 2/10/2026

Conference Preview: America East

AJ Denny

2026 College Preview Index | Preseason Top 25 | Preseason Collegiate All-Americans For all of Perfect Game's conference previews as part of the 2026 college baseball preview content, the 2025 records and all-conference teams are available for free. The conference top prospects and individual team breakdowns can be viewed with a subscription. 2025 Records Teams are listed in alphabetical order* Team W L W L Binghamton 13 11 28 26 Bryant 18 6 36 18 Maine 13 11 20 31 NJIT 14 10 27 26 UAlbany 10 14 22 32 UMass Lowell 8 16 18 35 UMBC 8 16 18 28 Preseason All-Conference Team Pos. Name School Stats/Notes C Levi McAllister UAlbany 2025 2nd Team America East All-Conference; hit .310 last season w/ 9 HRs and 25 XBH. Do-it-all guy for UAlbany, reliable behind dish w/ ability to hit for both AVG + power offensively 1B Sean O'Leary UMass...

Softball | Softball Tournament | 2/9/2026

Perfect Game Softball Winter Warm Up 18U Division

Erica Beach

Perfect Game Softball Winter Warm Up Burlington, IA Jan 30-Feb 1, 2026 BURLINGTON, IOWA- 23 teams across two age divisions converged onto Fun City Turf last weekend to compete to be the Winter Warm Up champions. In the 18U division, the Iowa Nationals 18U came out on top in a hard-fought game, defeating the Iowa Gold Prospects 2-1. On the weekend, several athletes stepped up big for their teams and below we highlight some of the top performers of the tournament. 18U Division Julia Roth (2026, Dubuque, IA) of the Lady Expos Blue was one of the most effective hitters of the weekend. She finished her weekend batting .583, tallying seven hits, four of them being home runs. Her power was on display, and she came in clutch multiple times, driving in nine runs for her team. This right-handed hitter showed great composure in the box, working counts, and making defenses earn...

High School | General | 2/9/2026

Deep South Region Top Teams

Tyler Russo

Deep South All Region & Top Tools Rk Deep South Record 1 Magnolia Heights (MS) 39-5 2 Barbe (LA) 35-7 3 Catholic (LA) 37-5 4 The Baylor School (TN) 22-8 5 Nolensville (TN) 20-14 6 Hoover (AL) 22-20 7 Sam Houston (LA) 36-8 8 Christian Brothers (TN) 26-13 9 Hartselle (AL) 35-8 10 Lipscomb Academy (TN) 28-9-1 11 Lewisburg (MS) 21-10 12 Farragut (TN) 32-11 13 Tuerlings Catholic (LA) 36-5 14 Tuscaloosa County (AL) 33-13 15 Petal (MS) 18-10 16 West Monroe (LA) 26-9-1 17 Brandon (MS) 24-14 18 Auburn (AL) 21-18 19 Oak Ridge (TN) 36-9 20 Bob Jones (AL) 37-12 21 Thompson (AL) 30-15 22 University Lab (LA) 29-12 23 Knoxville Catholic (TN) 23-16-1 24 Sumrall (MS) 25-9 25 Benton (LA) 35-6

College | Story | 2/10/2026

Conference Preview: Horizon

Scott Rankin

2026 College Preview Index | Preseason Top 25 | Preseason Collegiate All-Americans For all of Perfect Game's conference previews as part of the 2026 college baseball preview content, the 2025 records and all-conference teams are available for free. The conference top prospects and individual team breakdowns can be viewed with a subscription. 2025 Records Teams are listed in alphabetical order* Team W L W L Milwaukee 22 35 16 13 Northern Kentucky 31 25 18 12 Oakland 18 41 10 20 Wright State 40 21 25 5 Youngstown State 15 42 11 19 Preseason All-Conference Team Pos. Name School Stats/Notes C Jake Paulick Northern Kentucky Slashed .265/.404/.518 with 8 homers and 41 RBI in ‘25 1B Jp Peltier Wright State 1st team All-Horizon playing OF in ’25 and hit 20 homers with a 1.019 OPS 2B Hunter Warren Wright State 1st team All-Horizon in ’25...

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Conference Preview: MAC

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Perfect Game Partners with Goodles

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