MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Crusaders edged out Loyola for the top spot in the 2026 SSAC Baseball Coaches' Preseason Poll. 
 
The 2026 SSAC Baseball Championship is set for April 29 – May 2 in Jackson, Tenn. at Rockabillys Stadium. 
 
William Carey earned the SSAC Regular Season Championship last season, with Loyola claiming the tournament title.
 
Bobby Halford, Head Coach: "It's always an honor to be thought of as the team to beat in such a strong league and we know that it will be a challenge with each team returning talented players."

Thomas Baseball finished 6th overall in last year's conference standings with a 15-15 record in conference and a 22-30 overall record. The Night Hawks were a game short from an auto-bid in the NAIA National Tournament after a win over the eventual tournament champions the Loyola Wolfpack.
 
2026 SSAC Baseball Coaches' Preseason Poll
1. William Carey – 96 (6)
2. Loyola – 91 (4)
3. Faulkner – 77
4. ABAC – 74
5. Mobile – 55
6. Blue Mountain Christian – 46
7. Thomas – 39
8. Point – 32
9. UT Southern – 22
10. Brewton-Parker Christian – 18