BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- Florida A&M enters the 2026 baseball season with strong momentum and clear championship expectations after being selected second in the Southwestern Athletic Conference preseason poll, the league announced Monday.

Voted on by SWAC head coaches and sports information directors, the Rattlers earned 185 points and two first-place votes, finishing just behind Bethune-Cookman (209 points, 12 first-place votes). Florida A&M's placement reinforces the program's standing as one of the conference's elite contenders and positions the Rattlers to challenge for the top spot throughout the spring.

Alabama State (178 points, two first-place votes), Grambling State (143) and Jackson State (141) rounded out the top five.

For Florida A&M, the preseason recognition reflects both respect and opportunity. Being picked second underscores the Rattlers' consistency and competitive profile within one of the nation's top HBCU baseball leagues, while also providing added fuel as the team opens regular-season play this week.

The SWAC Baseball Tournament is scheduled for May 20-24 at historic Rickwood Field in Birmingham, setting the stage for what could be a defining postseason run for Florida A&M if it carries preseason promise into conference play.

With a top-tier projection, first-place support in the voting and a clear path to compete at the top of the standings, Florida A&M begins 2026 as a legitimate title threat.
 
2026 SWAC Baseball Preseason Poll
(First-place votes in parentheses)

1. Bethune-Cookman — 209 (12)
2. Florida A&M — 185 (2)
3. Alabama State — 178 (2)
4. Grambling State — 143
5. Jackson State — 141
6. Arkansas-Pine Bluff — 136 (2)
7. Southern — 118 (2)
8. Texas Southern — 84
9. Prairie View A&M — 70
10. Alabama A&M — 65
11. Alcorn State — 38
12. Mississippi Valley State — 37