College baseball season is just about here, so it’s time for Power 10 rankings. Preseason rankings are not easy. We obviously won’t find out just how good teams are until we see them in action, but let’s give it a go.
1. Texas A&M
Texas A&M is probably the only sure thing at No. 1 in this ranking. The Aggies made it to the MCWS Finals while pretty banged up and brought back almost their entire lineup with very few weaknesses. Jace LaViolette leads one of the nation’s premier offenses with power hitters top to bottom, while Ryan Prager returns as the ace and one of the best arms in the country.
After No. 1, this is where you could argue pretty much anything.
2. Virginia
I have Virginia at No. 2. I think this team brings back a lot of seasoned hitters: Jacob Ference, Henry Godbout, Harrison Didawick and Henry Ford. Plus, a pitching staff with experience at the MCWS.
3. LSU
LSU is up at No. 3 with a whole new look this year. Jared Jones will lead a deep lineup after smashing 28 home runs last season. Steven Milam is a big-time name to know after a stellar freshman year. The team added a lot of transfers and newcomers that will likely make immediate impacts.
4. Tennessee
Tennessee is at No. 4. The Vols have the national title and will likely reload this year, even with the loss of guys like Christian Moore, Billy Amick and Drew Beam. The team has some big transfers like Andrew Fischer and Gavin Kilen to join guys like Dean Curley and Hunter Ensley. Plus, Liam Doyle is a great addition to the pitching staff.
5. Arkansas
At No. 5, Arkansas. The team could have one of the best weekend rotations in the country with the addition of Zach Root and sophomore right-hander Gabe Gaeckle.
6. Oregon State
After No. 5, it gets even more difficult. I have Oregon State up at No. 6, with some key transfers like Aiva Arquette to join guys like Gavin Turley and Trent Caraway.
7. North Carolina
North Carolina checks in at No. 7. This team is highlighted by the star power of Luke Stevenson behind the dish and Jason DeCaro on the mound. There are a lot of guys with MCWS experience and what looks to be a balanced lineup with the new additions.
8. Florida State
Florida State is at No. 8 as it brings back Jamie Arnold, one of the best pitchers in the country — under a 3.00 ERA with Omaha experience. The Seminoles have some big bats and production to replace from last year, but they should be a strong defense team right out of the gates.
9. Georgia
It’s hard to replace a player like Charlie Condon — or Corey Collins, for that matter — but Georgia has reloaded this season. Tre Phelps is back after a breakout freshman season. The team also got big-time transfers like Devin Obee, Nolan McCarthy, Robbie Burnett and more to make up for power in the lineup. Plus, it should have a pretty good pitching staff.
10. Florida
Finally, at 10, I went to the Gators, who returned to MCWS with experienced players like Colby Shelton, Brody Donay and Ty Evans. Again, it’s hard to make up for a player like Jac Caglianone, but Florida has a lot of pieces.
My first team out was Clemson. Again, preseason rankings are nearly impossible to order.
