Upland, Indiana — For the first time in over 400 days, there is a new No. 1 team in NAIA baseball. Taylor University has claimed the top spot in the latest NAIA Top 25 Coaches Poll, marking a historic moment for the program.
Previously top-ranked LSU Shreveport fell to No. 4 after being swept in a three-game series by conference opponent Texas A&M–Victoria. The sweep extended LSU Shreveport’s losing streak to four games. Notably, the last time LSU Shreveport lost more than two consecutive games came during the 2024 season, when they were swept in four games by Lewis-Clark State. That series also marked the last time they had been swept—until now.
While LSU Shreveport has stumbled, Taylor has surged. The Trojans are currently riding a 12-game winning streak and boast an impressive 30–3 overall record, including an 18–2 mark in Crossroads League play. They are coming off a dominant four-game sweep of conference rival Bethel (IN). This rise to No. 1 also represents the first time in program history that Taylor baseball has held the top ranking in the NAIA.
Taylor’s success has been fueled by standout individual performances across the roster. Brennan Frickel has been one of the nation’s most consistent hitters, ranking sixth in the country in batting average at .462. He has totaled 36 hits, 31 RBIs, four home runs, and an outstanding .769 slugging percentage. Another key offensive contributor is Brayden Manning, who is hitting .416 with 52 hits, 43 RBIs, nine home runs, and a .720 slugging percentage.
On the mound, ace pitcher Wes Hunt has anchored the pitching staff. Hunt currently holds a 1.99 ERA (tied for ninth nationally) along with a 4–0 record. Across nine appearances, including eight starts, he has recorded 40 strikeouts while allowing just seven earned runs. His 11.37 strikeouts per nine innings further highlight his dominance this season.
As the season progresses, Taylor University finds itself not only in uncharted territory but firmly in control of its own destiny. With elite production at the plate, a reliable ace on the mound, and momentum on their side, the Trojans have positioned themselves as a legitimate national title contender. Now, the challenge shifts from reaching the top to staying there as the rest of the NAIA looks to knock off the new No. 1 team in the country.
Cooper Carter – NAIA Ball Staff Writer
