2025 College World Series Preview: Ranking the Omaha Eight

This year's College World Series brings an exciting twist—none of the eight teams competing in Omaha made it to the tournament last year. The result is a field that blends established champions with programs hungry for their first title, promising a wide-open competition where every team has a real shot at winning it all.

Interestingly, while five of the programs have captured national titles in the past 13 years, the current favorite has yet to lift the trophy. Here's a breakdown of how the contenders stack up heading into the biggest event in college baseball.

1. Arkansas Razorbacks

Making their 12th appearance in Omaha, Arkansas looks primed to finally capture its first national championship. The Razorbacks have showcased a dominant mix of offensive firepower and deep pitching, outscoring their postseason opponents 41-13 in five straight wins. This well-balanced squad is arguably the most complete team in the tournament and enters as the team to beat.

2. Coastal Carolina Chanticleers

Don't let their non-Power Four conference status fool you—Coastal Carolina is a serious contender. The 2016 national champions return to Omaha riding a 23-game winning streak. Their recipe for success has been stellar pitching combined with clutch hitting, highlighted by an impressive road sweep of Auburn. This team is built for a deep run.

3. LSU Tigers

A perennial powerhouse, LSU boasts more College World Series titles than any other team in the field. With a potent lineup and a talented pitching trio—starters Kade Anderson and Anthony Eyanson plus reliever Zac Cowan—the Tigers are built for Omaha. However, a potential early matchup with top-seeded Arkansas could be a major hurdle.

4. UCLA Bruins

It's been over a decade since UCLA last reached the College World Series, when they won their lone title in 2013. This year's squad leans on strong starting pitching, led by standout Michael Barnett. If the Bruins continue to perform well on the mound, they could be a tough out in a tournament where pitching often dominates.

5. Oregon State Beavers

Oregon State represents both tradition and transition as the Pac-12 stalwart prepares to go independent in 2025. Their postseason path was forged on the road, where they thrived under pressure. With power up and down the lineup—anchored by standout second baseman Aiva Arquette—they have the offense to stay in any game, even if the bullpen depth remains a concern.

6. Louisville Cardinals

Louisville stands as the last ACC team remaining after a tough super regional round. Now making their sixth College World Series appearance and first since 2019, the Cardinals bring a potent combination of offense and postseason-tested pitching. Outfielders Lucas Moore and Zion Rose lead the charge, and if the arms stay hot, Louisville could be a sleeper pick for the finals.

7. Arizona Wildcats

Arizona showed resilience by bouncing back from a lopsided 18-run loss to eliminate top-ranked North Carolina. With a long history in Omaha—this marks their 18th trip—the Wildcats bring experience and a high-scoring offense. Solid defense is a plus, but their title hopes hinge on finding more consistency on the mound.

8. Murray State Racers

As just the fourth No. 4 seed to ever reach Omaha, Murray State is the tournament's ultimate underdog and likely fan favorite. Known for their offensive output—scoring 70 runs in seven games—they've proven they can go the distance. While pitching depth may be tested if they fall into the loser's bracket, a strong start could make all the difference.

With tradition, talent, and momentum colliding in Omaha, this year's College World Series promises high drama and thrilling baseball. Whether it's a powerhouse seeking redemption or an underdog chasing glory, the stage is set for a memorable championship.