Welcome back to the diamond! With opening day just around the corner (February 13), the college baseball world exploded today with preseason polls and All-American honors. If you’re a fan of the SEC or Big 12, grab your coffee—there is a lot to unpack.
SEC Preseason Poll: LSU Claims Top Spot; Texas Looms Large
The Southeastern Conference coaches have spoken, and the LSU Tigers are the team to beat heading into 2026. Receiving nine first-place votes, the Tigers narrowly edged out conference newcomer Texas, who was picked to finish second.
- The Top Five: LSU (1), Texas (2), Mississippi State (3), Arkansas (4), and Auburn (5).
- Star Power: Texas and LSU tied for the most All-SEC selections with five apiece. Texas sophomore LHP Dylan Volantis—the 2025 SEC Freshman of the Year—headlines the first team.
- Bulldog Pride: Mississippi State’s Ace Reese (3B) and Noah Sullivan (DH/UT) both earned First Team honors.
Read more at Texas Sports:No. 3 Baseball predicted to finish second in SEC
Read more at Hail State:Reese, Sullivan Receive First Team All-SEC Honors
Big 12 & ASUN: Arizona and Stetson Chasing Repeats
The Arizona Wildcats are picked to finish second in the Big 12, just behind TCU. Arizona’s pitching staff remains a nightmare for hitters, featuring Tony Pluta (the 2025 Stopper of the Year) and Owen Kramkowski.
Meanwhile, in the ASUN, Stetson is the heavy favorite to repeat as Graphite Division champions. LHP Jake Gorelick was named Preseason Pitcher of the Year after a stellar 2025 campaign where he posted a 1.31 ERA.
- Big 12 Favorites: TCU (1), Arizona (2).
- ASUN Pitcher of the Year: Jake Gorelick, Stetson.
Source:Wildcats Predicted to Finish Second in Preseason Poll
Source:Gorelick, De La Cruz, Apple Highlight Hatters’ Preseason Accolades
Quick Hits: Players to Watch
- Indiana State: Junior OF Carter Beck was named to the preseason Top 150 list. He’s the reigning projected MVC Player of the Year. Source
- Coastal Carolina: Coming off a 2025 National Championship series appearance, the Chanticleers are ranked No. 6 in major preseason polls. OF Dean Mihos remains the spark plug for this lineup. Source
Today’s Scoreboard & Schedule
While the D1 season doesn’t officially start for another eight days, several Division II and small college programs are already in action. You can check live updates and box scores at WarrenNolan.com.
