Host Robert Frey and special guest Wayne Cavadi from the DII Report break down the first release of the regional consideration lists for the 2026 Division II baseball season. They analyze each region's top contenders and surprises while discussing how key metrics like RPI and strength of schedule influence the tournament bracket.

Regional Summaries:

Atlantic Region: The "Big Five"—West Chester, Millersville, East Stroudsburg, Seton Hill, and Frostburg State—remain the primary contenders. Bloomsburg is noted as a surprise due to playing the toughest schedule in D2 baseball.

Central Region: The MIAA dominates with seven teams on the list, potentially turning the GAC into a one-bid league. Traditional powers like Central Missouri and Pittsburg State continue to lead the pack.

East Region: Southern New Hampshire remains the dominant force, having reached the championship site in six of the last seven years. Bentley is identified as a sleeper pick due to offensive depth and strong starting pitching.

Midwest Region: Grand Valley State and Wayne State are positioned as likely hosts, bolstered by top-tier pitching rotations.

South Region: Florida Southern is a major disruptor with elite metrics despite a 21-17 record. Tampa and Rollins are considered locks, making the remaining spots highly competitive.

South Central Region: Colorado Mesa and the "Big Four" from the Lone Star Conference—West Texas A&M, Angelo State, Lubbock Christian, and UT Tyler—are the primary teams under consideration.

Southeast Region: Described as the most elite region, all ten listed teams have at least 30 wins. North Greenville leads with dominant metrics across the board.

West Region: Cal State Monterey Bay and Point Loma are top contenders. Cal Poly Pomona’s resume is strengthened by being the only D2 team to beat Colorado Mesa twice.

Chapters:

2:20 - Atlantic Region

5:55 - Metrics the committee looks at

7:45 - Central Region

13:20 - East Region

16:30 - Midwest Region

21:20 - South Region

26:55 - South Central Region

31:40 - Southeast Region

36:20 - West Region

robert frey

Related Tags