Best NAIA Baseball Schools

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As a former Division 1 and NAIA baseball player, I’ve been blown away by the exceptional quality of play in NAIA baseball across the country.

From charming small-town ballparks to a diverse mix of talent, NAIA baseball may not command the spotlight or budgets of Power 5 programs, but it’s home to remarkable players and programs. Many NAIA athletes hail from small towns or under-the-radar high schools, overlooked by Division 1 scouts due to limited exposure compared to their big-city counterparts.

The key distinction between Division 1 and NAIA lies in roster depth. While top NAIA teams can compete with elite Division 1 programs in a single game, the deeper benches and dominant pitching staffs of Division 1 schools often prove overwhelming in a multi-game series or over a full season.

What makes NAIA baseball truly special is its reach—some of the best programs thrive in cold-weather states, far from the traditional Power 5 hotbeds, showcasing the grit and heart of the sport.

NAIA Baseball Program Championships (By Active NAIA Schools)

  1. Lewis Clark State 19
  2. Cumberland 3
  3. Tennessee Wesleyan 2
  4. Southeastern 2 

Lewis Clark State is the best historical NAIA baseball program of all time, with 19 championships and 18 Major Leaguers in program history, and were led by legendary head coach Ed Cheff who recently passed away.

Notable NAIA Baseball Players that have made MLB

Numerous NAIA players are drafted by MLB teams every season and many have made it to the Major Leagues. Here are some of the best NAIA players of all time:

Ben Zobrist- Olivet Nazarene University

One standout NAIA baseball success story is Ben Zobrist, who rose from small-town roots to World Series glory with the Chicago Cubs. Growing up in Eureka, Illinois, Zobrist hadn’t set his sights on college baseball. It wasn’t until late in high school, when he caught the eye of an Olivet Nazarene University coach at a showcase, that his path changed with a scholarship offer.

Zobrist honed his skills at Olivet Nazarene before transferring to Dallas Baptist University for his senior year. His versatility and talent propelled him to a remarkable 14-year MLB career, culminating in a World Series MVP award with the Cubs in 2016, proving the hidden potential in NAIA talent.

Gaylord Perry-Campbell University

Another NAIA baseball legend is Gaylord Perry, who pitched for Campbell University in the late 1950s when it was an NAIA program. From there, Perry carved out a storied 22-year MLB career, earning Cy Young Awards in 1972 (with Cleveland) and 1978 (with San Diego) and securing his place in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991.

Known for his competitive fire and showmanship, Perry was one of the most entertaining pitchers of his era. As his velocity waned later in his career, he gained notoriety for allegedly doctoring the baseball with various substances to keep hitters off balance, adding a layer of mystique to his crafty pitching style.

Scott Brosius-Linfield College

Scott Brosius, a key figure in the New York Yankees’ three consecutive World Series titles from 1998 to 2000, is another shining example of NAIA baseball’s hidden talent. Raised in the small town of Milwaukie, Oregon, Brosius honed his skills at Linfield College, an NAIA program at the time (now competing in NCAA Division III).

His standout performance at Linfield paved the way for an eight-year MLB career, where his clutch hitting and stellar third-base defense earned him the 1998 World Series MVP award. Brosius’ path from an Oregon small-town diamond to Yankee Stadium underscores the grit and potential found in NAIA baseball.

Lou Brock-Southern University

Perhaps the most iconic NAIA baseball player of all time, Lou Brock, left an indelible mark on the sport, beginning at Southern University in Baton Rouge, then an NAIA program. As a standout for the Jaguars, Brock helped lead Southern to an NAIA championship, showcasing the electrifying speed and talent that defined his career.

Signed by the Chicago Cubs out of college, Brock was soon traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he became a legend. Over a 19-year MLB career, he earned two World Series titles, six All-Star selections, and a place in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1985. With his number 20 retired by the Cardinals, Brock’s journey from NAIA champion to baseball immortality highlights the extraordinary potential within NAIA programs.

David Justice-Thomas More University

David Justice, a cornerstone of the Atlanta Braves’ dominant World Series runs in the 1990s, began his remarkable journey at Thomas More College (now Thomas More University), an NAIA program in Kentucky. Recruited on a basketball scholarship, Justice didn’t play college baseball, instead showcasing his raw athleticism in American Legion baseball during the summer.

His explosive potential caught the eye of the Braves, who selected him in the fourth round of the 1985 MLB Draft. Justice went on to a 14-year MLB career, earning two World Series rings (1995 with Atlanta, 2000 with the Yankees), three All-Star nods, and the 1990 NL Rookie of the Year award. His path from an NAIA basketball player to MLB stardom highlights the untapped talent lurking in NAIA programs.

Joe Morgan, Oakland City College

Joe Morgan, a cornerstone of the Cincinnati Reds’ legendary “Big Red Machine” in the 1970s, began his journey at Oakland City College, an NAIA program in Indiana. Standing at just 5’7”, Morgan’s diminutive stature led many MLB scouts to overlook him, but his tenacity and skill shone through.

Signed by the Houston Colt .45s (now Astros), he was later traded to the Reds, where he became a two-time MVP (1975, 1976) and a driving force behind two World Series titles (1975, 1976). A 10-time All-Star, Morgan was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1990 and later became a beloved voice of the game, anchoring ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball for nearly two decades. Morgan’s rise from an NAIA underdog to baseball immortality showcases the hidden gems within NAIA programs.

Other notable NAIA MLB Players

  • Son Sutton
  • Seth Brown
  • Ray King
  • Don Sutton
  • Steve Liddle
  • Stephen Vogt

Top NAIA Baseball Programs 

1.Lewis-Clark State, Lewiston Idaho

Lewis-Clark State College (LC State) stands as the gold standard of NAIA baseball, boasting an unparalleled legacy with 19 NAIA World Series titles, the most of any program. Under the visionary leadership of legendary head coach Ed Cheff, who transformed the program into a powerhouse from 1977 to 2010, LC State cemented its reputation for excellence.

Based in Lewiston, Idaho, the Warriors not only dominate on the field but also host the NAIA World Series annually, drawing top talent to their storied ballpark. LC State’s remarkable success highlights the depth and competitive spirit of NAIA baseball, proving that small-town programs can achieve greatness on a national stage.

2. Southeastern University-Lakeland, Fl

 
 
 
 
 
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Southeastern University, nestled in the sun-soaked city of Lakeland, Florida, thrives in near-perfect, year-round baseball weather, making it a haven for the sport. The Fire have emerged as a modern NAIA powerhouse, capturing NAIA World Series titles in 2018 and 2022.

With a prime location surrounded by a wealth of top-tier recruits and fueled by recent championship momentum, Southeastern is poised for sustained success. Their rise underscores the competitive edge and vibrant talent pool within NAIA baseball, proving that programs outside the traditional spotlight can shine brightly on the national stage.

3. Bellevue University-Omaha, NE

Bellevue University, based in Omaha, Nebraska, has carved out a formidable legacy in NAIA baseball, amassing 16 World Series appearances and capturing a national championship in 1995. Under the transformative leadership of former head coach Mike Evans, who guided the Bruins from 1989 to 2010, Bellevue became a perennial NAIA powerhouse.

Evans, with a remarkable 928-457-1 record, led the team to 12 World Series berths, including a runner-up finish in 1997, and earned the 1995 NAIA National Coach of the Year award. The Bruins’ consistent excellence, marked by 18 district or regional championships and 18 MCAC titles, showcases the depth of talent in Nebraska’s NAIA scene, proving that Omaha is a hotbed for small-college baseball greatness

4. Faulkner University-Montgomery AL

Faulkner University, located in the vibrant capital city of Montgomery, Alabama, has emerged as a formidable force in NAIA baseball, competing in the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC). The Eagles soared to national glory in 2013, clinching the NAIA World Series title, and have made nine World Series appearances, with their most recent in 2022.

Under the leadership of head coach Patrick McCarthy, Faulkner’s consistent excellence—bolstered by a strong regional talent pool and a passionate baseball culture—has solidified its status as a perennial contender. Their journey from Montgomery to the national stage exemplifies the heart and hustle of NAIA baseball, proving that dedication and skill can elevate small-college programs to championship heights.

5. Cumberland University-Lebanon, TN

 
 
 
 
 
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Cumberland University, located in Lebanon, Tennessee, is a titan of NAIA baseball, competing in the Mid-South Conference and boasting NAIA World Series titles in 2004, 2010, and 2014, along with runner-up finishes in 1995 and 2006. Under the legendary leadership of head coach Woody Hunt, who led the Phoenix from 1980 to 2021 with a 1,630-774-5 record, Cumberland solidified its status as an NAIA powerhouse.

Hunt’s tenure included 12 World Series appearances, seven Mid-South Conference regular-season titles, and six tournament championships, earning him the 2006 NAIA National Coach of the Year award. With 69 NAIA All-Americans, including 2010 National Player of the Year Matt Greener, and three MLB alumni—Jack Farmer, Luis Martinez, and Aaron Wilkerson—Cumberland’s legacy showcases the elite talent and relentless spirit of NAIA baseball.

6. Oklahoma City University- Oklahoma City, OK

 
 
 
 
 
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Oklahoma City University, a cornerstone of NAIA baseball in the heart of the Midwest, has solidified its legacy with 15 NAIA World Series appearances and a national championship in 2005, when the Stars defeated Embry-Riddle University after three consecutive runner-up finishes (2002–2004). Competing in the Sooner Athletic Conference, Oklahoma City has been a powerhouse for decades, driven by a rich tradition of talent and resilience.

The Stars’ three runner-up finishes (2002, 2003, 2004) underscore their consistent excellence, while their 2005 triumph cemented their place among NAIA elites. With a passionate baseball culture in Oklahoma City, the Stars continue to inspire, proving that NAIA programs can compete at the highest levels and leave an indelible mark on the sport.

7. Tennessee Wesleyan University- Athens, TN

Tennessee Wesleyan University, nestled in the charming town of Athens, Tennessee, has left a lasting mark on NAIA baseball as a proud member of the Appalachian Athletic Conference. The Bulldogs have competed in five NAIA World Series, clinching a national championship in 2012 with a thrilling victory over Rogers State University, marking a pinnacle of their program’s history.

Their consistent excellence, driven by a deep connection to Tennessee’s rich baseball heritage, showcases the tenacity and talent thriving in NAIA programs. Tennessee Wesleyan’s 2012 triumph highlights the potential for small-town teams to rise to national prominence, embodying the heart of NAIA baseball.

8. St. Thomas University-Miami Gardens, FL

St. Thomas University, located in the dynamic community of Miami Gardens, Florida, has carved a notable presence in NAIA baseball as a proud member of The Sun Conference since 1990. The Bobcats have made six NAIA World Series appearances, with their most recent trip in 2014, showcasing their competitive spirit under the guidance of head coach Jorge Perez.

With a vibrant baseball culture in South Florida and a campus just minutes from Miami’s iconic beaches, St. Thomas draws talent from a diverse, talent-rich region, fueling their consistent postseason contention. Their six World Series berths, including a standout regional championship in 2021, highlight the program’s resilience and ambition, proving that NAIA baseball thrives in the heart of Miami Gardens.

 

9. LSU Shreveport-Shreveport, LA

 
 
 
 
 
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Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSU Shreveport), a dominant force in the Red River Athletic Conference, has solidified its reputation as an NAIA baseball powerhouse with five NAIA World Series appearances (2003, 2011, 2012, 2021, 2022). The Pilots, based in Shreveport, Louisiana, have claimed nine regular-season conference titles and 13 conference tournament championships, showcasing their consistent excellence.

Their back-to-back World Series trips in 2021 and 2022, highlighted by a record-setting 33-0 start in 2023, cemented their status as perennial contenders. Despite a heartbreaking loss in the 2024 Opening Round, LSU Shreveport’s potent offense—averaging 8.5 runs per game—and elite pitching, led by 2024 RRAC Pitcher of the Year Isaac Rhode, position them as favorites to return to Lewiston. The Pilots’ rise from regional standout to national threat embodies the relentless spirit of NAIA baseball.

10. Georgia Gwinnett-Lawrenceville, Georgia

 
 
 
 
 
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Georgia Gwinnett College, based in the thriving community of Lawrenceville, Georgia, has emerged as a dynamic force in NAIA baseball, competing as an NAIA Independent within the Continental Athletic Conference. The Grizzlies captured their first NAIA World Series title in 2021, defeating Central Methodist University 8-4, and have made five World Series appearances (2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023) over the past eight years.

Under head coach Jeremy Sheetinger, who earned the 2021 Skip Bertman Award, the 2021 championship team outscored opponents by a 37-14 margin in the Lawrenceville Bracket. With a 2025 season record of 41-0 before their first loss, led by NAIA career runs leader Braxton Meguiar (302 runs), and bolstered by a talent-rich region near Atlanta, Georgia Gwinnett continues to solidify its status as an NAIA powerhouse, embodying the relentless drive of small-college baseball.

 

11. Oklahoma Arts and Science-Chickasha, Oklahoma

 
 
 
 
 
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The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (USAO), rooted in the close-knit community of Chickasha, Oklahoma, shines as a steadfast NAIA baseball contender within the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC). The Drovers marked a historic milestone with their 2022 NAIA World Series appearance, their first since 1985, storming through the Oklahoma City Bracket with a 35-22 record to reaffirm their place among NAIA elites.

Under the guidance of head coach Talon Venable, USAO consistently ranks among the SAC’s top teams, driven by a potent offense and resilient pitching that keeps them in the NAIA Top 25 conversation. With a passionate fanbase and a deep connection to Oklahoma’s vibrant baseball culture, USAO’s 2022 World Series run and perennial SAC dominance highlight the grit and talent thriving in NAIA programs, proving that Chickasha is a cornerstone of small-college baseball excellence.

12. Indiana Southeast-New Albany, Indiana

 
 
 
 
 
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Indiana University Southeast (IU Southeast), located in the vibrant riverfront city of New Albany, Indiana, has established itself as a formidable NAIA baseball contender within the River States Conference. The Grenadiers made a triumphant NAIA World Series appearance in 2021, finishing fifth, and followed it with a robust 2022 season, posting a 40-15 record.

Their momentum carried into 2023, when they cracked the NAIA Top 25, showcasing their consistency under head coach Ben Reel. With a dynamic offense, anchored by players like Clay Woeste, and a pitching staff led by standouts like Cade Rusch, IU Southeast continues to compete at an elite level, drawing talent from Indiana’s rich baseball tradition. Their 2021 World Series run and sustained excellence affirm New Albany as a hub for NAIA baseball, proving that small-college programs can shine on the national stage.

13. Oklahoma Wesleyan-Bartlesville, OK

 
 
 
 
 
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Oklahoma Wesleyan University (OKWU), rooted in the spirited community of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, stands as a proud NAIA baseball powerhouse within the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC). The Eagles have soared to three NAIA World Series appearances (2014, 2017, 2021), with a standout third-place finish in 2014, showcasing their ability to compete with the nation’s best.

Under the leadership of head coach Kirk Kelley, OKWU has built a reputation for explosive offense and tenacious pitching, exemplified by stars like Cody Muncy, the 2021 NAIA Player of the Year. With a vibrant Christian ethos and a home field at Bill Doenges Memorial Park, the Eagles consistently challenge for KCAC titles, drawing talent from Oklahoma’s deep baseball roots. OKWU’s World Series legacy and relentless drive affirm Bartlesville as a beacon of NAIA baseball excellence.

List of NAIA Baseball Programs by Conference

American Midwest Conference (AMC)

Rooted in the heartland, the AMC blends gritty competition with academic focus, producing consistent NAIA contenders.

  • Columbia College (Missouri)

  • Hannibal–LaGrange University

  • Harris–Stowe State University

  • Lyon College

  • Missouri Baptist University

  • William Woods University

  • Williams Baptist University

Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC)

The AAC, nestled in the scenic Southeast, boasts programs like Tennessee Wesleyan, with a 2012 NAIA World Series title, embodying regional pride.

  • Bluefield University

  • Bryan College

  • Columbia International University

  • Johnson University Tennessee

  • Kentucky Christian University

  • Milligan University

  • Montreat College

  • Point University

  • Reinhardt University

  • Tennessee Wesleyan University

  • Truett McConnell University

  • Union Commonwealth University

California Pacific Conference (Cal Pac)

The Cal Pac thrives in the West, with programs like Embry-Riddle Arizona leveraging sunny climates for year-round play.

  • Benedictine University at Mesa

  • Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University (Arizona)

  • La Sierra University

  • Pacific Union College

  • Park University Gilbert

  • Simpson University

  • Westcliff University

Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC)

The CCC, spanning the Pacific Northwest, features powerhouse Lewis-Clark State, with 19 NAIA World Series titles.

  • Bushnell University

  • College of Idaho

  • Corban University

  • Eastern Oregon University

  • Lewis–Clark State College

  • Oregon Institute of Technology

Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC)

The CCAC, centered in the Midwest, delivers urban grit, with programs like St. Xavier competing fiercely.

  • Calumet College of St. Joseph

  • Indiana University Northwest

  • Indiana University South Bend

  • Judson University

  • Olivet Nazarene University

  • Roosevelt University

  • Saint Ambrose University

  • Saint Xavier University

  • University of St. Francis (Illinois)

Continental Athletic Conference (Independents)

The CAC serves independent NAIA programs, with Georgia Gwinnett standing out as the 2021 NAIA World Series champion.

  • Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College

  • Fisher College

  • Florida National University

  • Georgia Gwinnett College

  • Lincoln Christian University

  • Oakland City University

  • Penn State Schuylkill

  • Rust College

  • Voorhees University

  • Washington Adventist University

Crossroads League

The Crossroads League, rooted in Indiana, produces disciplined teams like Taylor, a consistent postseason threat.

  • Bethel University (Indiana)

  • Grace College

  • Huntington University

  • Indiana Wesleyan University

  • Marian University

  • Mount Vernon Nazarene University

  • Spring Arbor University

  • Taylor University

Notes: Goshen College does not field a baseball team, per naiastats.prestosports.com. Bethel University is specified as Indiana to avoid confusion, per naia.org.

Golden State Athletic Conference (GSAC)

The GSAC, bathed in California sunshine, features Hope International, the 2024 NAIA World Series champion.

  • Arizona Christian University

  • Hope International University

  • Jessup University

  • Menlo College

  • Ottawa University Arizona

Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC)

The GPAC, spanning the Plains, showcases Concordia Nebraska, a regular NAIA postseason contender.

  • Briar Cliff University

  • Concordia University (Nebraska)

  • Doane University

  • Dordt University

  • Hastings College

  • Midland University

  • Mount Marty University

  • Morningside University

  • Northwestern College

Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC)

The GCAC, centered on HBCUs, fosters emerging baseball programs with deep cultural roots.

  • Dillard University

  • Oakwood University

  • Southern University at New Orleans

  • Talladega College

  • Tougaloo College

  • Wiley College

Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC)

The HAAC, in the Midwest, features Central Methodist, a 2021 World Series participant.

  • Baker University

  • Benedictine College

  • Central Methodist University

  • Clarke University

  • Culver–Stockton College

  • Evangel University

  • Grand View University

  • Graceland University

  • MidAmerica Nazarene University

  • Missouri Valley College

  • Mount Mercy University

  • Park University

  • Peru State College

  • William Penn University

Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC)

The KCAC, anchored in Kansas, includes Oklahoma Wesleyan, with three World Series appearances.

  • Avila University

  • Bethany College

  • Bethel College

  • Friends University

  • Kansas Wesleyan University

  • McPherson College

  • Oklahoma Wesleyan University

  • Ottawa University

  • Southwestern College

  • Sterling College

  • Tabor College

  • University of Saint Mary

  • York University

Mid-South Conference (MSC)

The MSC, in the Southeast, boasts Cumberland, with NAIA titles in 2004, 2010, and 2014.

  • Bethel University (Tennessee)

  • Campbellsville University

  • Cumberland University

  • Freed–Hardeman University

  • Georgetown College

  • Lindsey Wilson College

  • University of Pikeville

  • University of the Cumberlands

North Star Athletic Association (NSAA)

The NSAA, in the northern Plains, features Bellevue, with a 1995 NAIA title.

  • Bellevue University

  • Dakota State University

  • Dickinson State University

  • Mayville State University

  • Valley City State University

  • Viterbo University

Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC)

The RRAC, in the Southwest, includes LSU Shreveport, a five-time World Series participant.

  • Huston–Tillotson University

  • Jarvis Christian University

  • Louisiana Christian University

  • Louisiana State University–Alexandria

  • Louisiana State University–Shreveport

  • Our Lady of the Lake University

  • Texas A&M University–San Antonio

  • Texas A&M University–Texarkana

  • University of Houston–Victoria

  • University of the Southwest

River States Conference (RSC)

The RSC, spanning the Ohio Valley, features IU Southeast, with a 2021 World Series appearance.

  • Brescia University

  • Indiana University Kokomo

  • Indiana University Southeast

  • Midway University

  • Oakland City University

  • Ohio Christian University

  • Point Park University

  • University of Rio Grande

  • West Virginia University Institute of Technology

Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC)

The SAC, in the heart of Oklahoma, includes Oklahoma City, with a 2005 NAIA title.

  • Central Christian College of Kansas

  • Mid-America Christian University

  • Oklahoma City University

  • Southwestern Christian University

  • Texas Wesleyan University

  • University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

  • Wayland Baptist University

Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC)

The SSAC, in the Deep South, features Faulkner, the 2013 NAIA champion.

  • Blue Mountain Christian University

  • Brewton-Parker College

  • Faulkner University

  • Loyola University New Orleans

  • Middle Georgia State University

  • Mobile University

  • Stillman College

  • William Carey University

Notes: The SSAC has eight active baseball programs, with Middle Georgia State transitioning to NCAA Division II by July 2025 but remaining NAIA for 2024–25.

The Sun Conference

The Sun Conference, in sunny Florida, includes Southeastern, with 2018 and 2022 titles.

  • Ave Maria University

  • Florida Memorial University

  • Keiser University

  • Southeastern University

  • St. Thomas University

  • Warner University

  • Webber International University

Notes: The Sun Conference roster is unchanged, with all seven programs active in baseball, per thesunconference.com.

Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC)

The WHAC, in the Great Lakes region, features Concordia Michigan, a postseason regular.

  • Aquinas College

  • Cleary University

  • Concordia University Ann Arbor

  • Cornerstone University

  • Indiana Tech

  • Lawrence Technological University

  • Madonna University

  • Rochester Christian University

  • Siena Heights University

  • University of Michigan–Dearborn

  • University of Northwestern Ohio