The Big Ten became a true power conference for baseball when USC and UCLA joined in 2024. Neither cracked the preseason Top 25, but both bring recruiting advantages and Pac-12 traditions. Michigan and Indiana remain the established powers, with Maryland and Nebraska rising.

First year in Big Ten—transition season

Erik Bakich returns program to prominence

Jeff Mercer has built a consistent winner

Matt Swope developing pitching depth

Will Bolt builds toward contention

Dan Hartleb works to stay competitive

Bill Mosiello in first years at helm

Steve Owens building in New Jersey

Rob Cooper develops program

Greg Goff working toward competitiveness

Jim Foster builds academic-athletic balance

John Anderson in his final seasons

Rick Heller builds consistently

Jake Boss Jr. developing program

Working to establish Big Ten presence

Mark Wasikowski adjusts to Big Ten

New to Big Ten baseball
Rankings: D1Baseball preseason poll. Last updated: 3/17/2026, 2:24:04 PM CT