VALDOSTA, Ga. – The Valdosta State baseball program earned national recognition entering the 2026 season by receiving votes in the 2026 ABCA NCAA Division II Baseball Preseason Coaches Poll, as announced by the American Baseball Coaches Association today.

Valdosta State was listed among the programs receiving votes, joining a competitive national field highlighted by defending national champion Tampa, which topped the preseason poll. The rankings are voted on by NCAA Division II head coaches from across the country. GSC foes West Florida and Mississippi College came in 14th and 21st, respectively. Delta State was also recognized as having received votes. Two weeks ago, the Blazers were ranked fourth in the Gulf South Conference preseason poll, a league which saw massive roster turnover during the offseason. 

The Blazers return several key players from a strong core last season and filled out the roster with a wealth of newcomers. Key returners include bats like Easton Hood, Marcos Sevillano, and Luca Maberry along with familiar arms like those of Drake LaRoche, Preston Wetherell, and Keaton Fuller. VSU will also look to find production from several newcomers, with guys like Brent Howard, Garrett Moody, Jack Butler, and more hoping to emerge in key roles for the Blazers in 2026. 

Valdosta State will open the 2026 season with a road swing through Florida, beginning Thursday, Jan. 30, with a 6 p.m. matchup against Nova Southeastern in Fort Lauderdale. The Blazers will then face Palm Beach Atlantic on Saturday, Jan. 31, at 1 p.m. in West Palm Beach, before closing opening weekend against Barry on Sunday, Feb. 1, at 1 p.m. in Miami Shores.

The full 2026 ABCA NCAA Division II Baseball Preseason Coaches Poll can be viewed here.