Royals Baseball Ranked No. 5 in First NAIA Coaches Poll of 2026 Season

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Johnson University baseball team has earned national recognition in the first NAIA Baseball Coaches' Top 25 Poll of the 2026 season, coming in at No. 5 in the country in the poll released by the NAIA national office.

The ranking marks the highest national ranking in program history and highlights the impressive start the Royals have put together early this season. Johnson has quickly established itself as one of the top teams in the NAIA after building an outstanding resume through the first portion of the year.

Head coach Dave Serrano said the recognition is a reflection of the work the team has put in, but emphasized that the focus remains on continuing to improve throughout the season.

"What an honor for our guys," Serrano said. "They've put together a very good resume to this point to be very deserving of this ranking. We, on the inside, love the recognition being handed out but also realize it means nothing if we don't continue to be the team we have been and keep working together to be successful."

Through the opening stretch of the season, the Royals have showcased a balanced approach on both sides of the ball. Johnson has generated consistent offense while also receiving strong performances on the mound, helping the team control games and build momentum throughout the early schedule.

As a team, the Royals have produced over 140 runs on more than 170 hits while posting a team batting average above .300. The offense has also displayed power and aggressiveness on the bases, recording nearly 50 extra-base hits and more than 50 stolen bases so far this season.

On the pitching side, Johnson has maintained strong control of opposing lineups with a team ERA under 4.00, combining effective starting pitching with reliable bullpen performances to close out games.

The NAIA Baseball Coaches' Top 25 Poll is voted on by a panel of head coaches representing conferences across the NAIA and is released periodically throughout the season as teams continue to compete across the country.

With a long season still ahead, the Royals will look to continue building on their strong start as they prepare for upcoming conference play in the Appalachian Athletic Conference.