The college baseball regular season has concluded, shifting focus to the postseason. As we approach conference tournament week, our Field of 64 projections have been updated to reflect this new phase.
This week’s projections reveal some changes in host teams, with two new additions. The SEC continues to dominate, placing eight teams among the top 16 seeds in the NCAA Tournament, and securing six of the top eight spots. The ACC follows with four hosts, while the Big Ten (2), Sun Belt (1), and Oregon State as an independent round out the top 16.
In terms of total bids, the SEC unsurprisingly leads with 13 teams qualifying. The ACC also surpasses ten with 10 teams, followed by the Big 12 (8), Big East (3), Big Ten (3), and Sun Belt (3).
The NCAA Tournament selection show is scheduled for Monday, May 26. Most conferences will kick off their tournaments early in the week, although some have already started.
Field of 64 Projections: Bubble Watch
Last Four In: Arizona State, UConn, Oklahoma State, Xavier
First Four Out: UTRGV, Virginia, Western Kentucky, Cal Poly
The bubble is intriguing as we enter conference tournaments. Oklahoma State’s recent sweep over Arizona State has secured their spot for the first time, while the Sun Devils are trending downwards. Both teams are closely ranked in RPI (Oklahoma State at 45 and Arizona State at 46).
Regional Updates
UTRGV’s early elimination from the Southland Tournament puts them in a precarious situation, relying on the selection committee’s decisions. With two Q1 wins and only nine total wins in Q1 and Q2, their position is at risk. Similarly, Cal Poly and Western Kentucky must perform well in their tournaments to enhance their chances.
Iowa has stumbled after a strong start in the Big Ten, having lost several series and dropping to an RPI of 74. They will need to rally this week to regain footing in the selection discussion.
