Kansas Baseball Cracks Top 25 in Coaches Poll

Jayhawks earn national ranking after impressive start to Big 12 play.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:39pm

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A cubist, geometric painting featuring overlapping planes of crimson, blue, and white, representing the dynamic action and energy of a college baseball game.Kansas baseball's rise into the national rankings showcases the team's growth and potential under coach Dan Fitzgerald.Lawrence Today

The Kansas baseball team has risen into the top 25 of the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll after a strong start to the Big 12 Conference season. Head coach Dan Fitzgerald and his players recently previewed an upcoming series against UCF as the Jayhawks look to build on their momentum.

Why it matters

Kansas baseball has struggled in recent years, but the team's current ranking in the top 25 national poll represents a significant milestone. Earning a spot among the country's elite programs could help the Jayhawks attract top recruits and generate more excitement around the program in the state of Kansas.

The details

After a slow start to the season, the Kansas baseball team has surged in recent weeks, winning key conference matchups to climb into the top 25 of the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll. The Jayhawks are now preparing to host UCF in a Big 12 series as they look to solidify their ranking and position themselves for a potential NCAA Tournament berth.

  • Kansas baseball opened the season in late February.
  • The Jayhawks have been on a hot streak in Big 12 play over the past month.
  • Kansas will host UCF in a three-game series starting on April 18, 2026.

The players

Dan Fitzgerald

The head coach of the Kansas baseball team, who has guided the program's resurgence this season.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to welcome UCF to Lawrence and continue our strong start in Big 12 play. The guys have been working hard, and it's great to see that effort paying off with a national ranking.”

— Dan Fitzgerald, Head Coach

What’s next

If Kansas can continue its winning ways against UCF, the Jayhawks could solidify their spot in the top 25 and put themselves in strong position for an NCAA Tournament berth.

The takeaway

Kansas baseball's rise into the national rankings is a testament to the program's hard work and development under head coach Dan Fitzgerald. The Jayhawks' success this season has generated renewed excitement around the team and could help attract top talent to the university.