Rice’s baseball team is gearing up for the 2026 American Conference Baseball Championship. They earned the third seed with a solid 16-11 record, narrowly beating UAB, which finished at 15-12. This marks the first time in 28 years they’ve been a third seed in the conference’s history.
Game Coverage
J.P. Heath will share play-by-play on RiceOwls.com and the Varsity Network app. Fans can catch the action on ESPN+, featuring two dedicated crews.
Owls vs. Shockers
The rivalry between Rice and Wichita State is intense, with the Shockers leading the series 9-5. Last April, Wichita won two of three games; however, Rice snagged a victory in the middle game. Freshmen pitchers Ethan Sanders and Ty Thames kept the Shockers in check, securing a close win. Historically, through their postseason encounters, both teams have had significant moments, like Rice’s 2003 comeback against Wichita to win the National Championship.
Recent Performance
The Owls struggled at first this season, sitting at 8-10 in the American Conference. But they made a strong comeback, finishing with an impressive 8-1 record in their last nine games. This turnaround is the best since they were the top seed back in 2015.
Conference Milestones
Throughout their history, Rice has been the top seed in conference tournaments 12 times and has won eight championships. Their overall record stands out: 57-34 in all-time conference tournaments, showcasing their competitive spirit since joining in 1981.
Positive Trends
This year, the Owls show a +28 run differential, signaling their offensive growth compared to last season, where they faced a staggering -145. After starting the season 3-6, their improved performance has fans hopeful for a successful run.
Looking Ahead
Thursday’s winner will face East Carolina on Friday morning. This championship run could be a pivotal moment for the Owls, as they aim to build on their recent successes.
For more updates, visit RiceOwls.com.
