The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) has released its preseason baseball coaches poll for 2026, ranking Central Missouri at the top, followed by Pittsburg State and Central Oklahoma. Newman University is positioned 13th in the poll with a total of 20 points. The Jets are under the new leadership of Coach Lance Spongberg, who previously had a successful run with Southeastern University. Last season, Newman finished with a record of 10-36, marking a challenging year but returning thirteen players, including key contributors. The Jets commence their season on January 31 against East Central in Ada, Oklahoma.

By the Numbers
  • Central Missouri leads the poll with 144 points.
  • Newman has 20 points, placing them at 13th in the preseason rankings.
State of Play
  • Newman's roster features 13 returning players, critical for improving on last year's performance.
  • Coach Lance Spongberg is starting his tenure following a previous championship run as an assistant.
What's Next

The Jets will face East Central to kick off their season and will play a total of twelve home games including key series against MSU Denver and Washburn. Conference play begins shortly after, where they will aim to improve their standings starting with a series against Pittsburg State and Central Missouri.

Bottom Line

Newman University is looking to turn around a tough previous season under new head coach Lance Spongberg. Their success will largely depend on the performance of returning players and their ability to adapt to Spongberg's coaching style in upcoming games.