LSU stays at No. 1 in the USA TODAY Sports college baseball poll. The Tigers’ SEC rival Texas rises to No. 2 while North Carolina, Arkansas and Oregon, move up to spots No. 3 through No. 5, respectively.
The latest USA TODAY Sports college baseball coaches poll, released on May 19, 2025, reaffirms LSU’s dominance at the pinnacle of college baseball. The Tigers maintain their No. 1 ranking, bolstered by a 41–13 record and securing 22 of the 31 first-place votes.
Close on their heels, the Texas Longhorns ascend to the No. 2 spot, reflecting a remarkable season under new leadership. North Carolina, Arkansas, and Oregon round out the top five, each showcasing formidable performances as the postseason approaches.
Under the guidance of head coach Jay Johnson, now in his fourth year, LSU continues to set the standard in collegiate baseball. The Tigers’ impressive 41–13 overall record and 19–11 conference tally underscore their consistent prowess. Their achievements include clinching the Frisco College Baseball Classic and maintaining top rankings across major polls.
Preseason expectations were high, with standout players like first baseman Jared Jones and pitcher Kade Anderson earning All-SEC honors. Freshman utility player Derek Curiel was also spotlighted as the SEC Preseason Freshman of the Year, highlighting the team’s depth and talent.
The Longhorns’ rise to No. 2 is a testament to the transformative impact of head coach Jim Schlossnagle, who took the helm after departing Texas A&M. Predicted to finish eighth in the SEC preseason poll, Texas defied expectations by clinching the SEC title with a 7-4 victory over Oklahoma.
Key to their success has been a revitalized pitching staff, led by standout starter Jared Spencer and closer Dylan Volantis. The team’s ERA dropped from 4.91 to an SEC-best 3.53, reflecting the effective strategies implemented by pitching coach Max Weiner. Offensively, players like Max Belyeu and Jalin Flores have provided consistent contributions, solidifying Texas as a formidable contender.
Holding the No. 3 position, North Carolina boasts a 39–11 record, demonstrating resilience and consistency throughout the season. Their balanced approach and strategic play have kept them firmly in the upper echelon of college baseball rankings.
Arkansas ascends to No. 4 with a 42–12 record, showcasing a potent combination of offensive firepower and pitching depth. Their upward trajectory in the rankings reflects a team peaking at the right moment, poised for a strong postseason run.
Rounding out the top five, Oregon’s 40–13 record marks a significant achievement for the program. Their recent surge in the rankings underscores a team gaining momentum, with aspirations of making a deep impact in the NCAA tournament.
As the regular season concludes, these top-ranked teams position themselves for favorable seedings in the NCAA tournament. LSU and Texas, in particular, are strong candidates for No. 1 seeds, given their impressive records and conference performances. The upcoming regional and super regional matchups will be critical in determining the path to the College World Series in Omaha.
The depth and competitiveness of the top five teams highlight the dynamic nature of college baseball this season. With each program bringing unique strengths to the field, fans can anticipate an exciting and unpredictable postseason.
